India head coach Ravi Shastri has said that India's team combination for their game against Pakistan will depend on the conditions. While India’s batting looks sorted out, the management has to make a call on playing three pacers or spinners. Shastri said drew will be a big factor before taking a call on selecting the XI. The spinners dominate the proceedings in Dubai but dew makes them less effective. With India set to play all their games in the evening, it’s a massive factor to consider.
"We'll just try to see how much dew is around and accordingly decide to bat/bowl first. Also helps us decide about playing an extra spinner or seamer," Shastri told former India stumper Deep Dasgupta during an interaction for official broadcasters 'Star Sports'.
Shastri, who is on his last assignment with team India, also said that he will be keeping a keen eye on players’ form and rhythm in the warm-up games. "Everyone can bat, everyone can bowl (in this game). So it will help us to get an idea about who is doing how. "Not really (regarding any locked strategy). We'll just see how things go and work a combination around."
Shastri further added that having played the IPL right before the mega event have got the players into the groove for the showpiece event. “Boys have been playing IPL for the last two months, so I don't think they need too much of preparation. It's more about them getting together and adapting together. Get some rhythm going, some energy going,” he added.