Top 5 talking points from Duleep Trophy

#3 Match practice before the International games

Pujara and Gambhir were stars in the tournament

During the later half of the tournament, many International players were drafted into the squad. This was primarily aimed at giving them genuine match practice in home conditions before the season commences.

It goes without saying that there is no substitute for playing in the centre against quality opposition and that no amount of time spent in the nets can match the experience gained while playing in a competitive match.

For Indian players, this experience will hold them in great stead ahead of the series against New Zealand.