The Indian cricket team trained for the three-match T20 series against Sri Lanka, which begins in Guwahati on Sunday.
The T20 World Cup will be held later this year, which means teams have shifted their focus to the shortest format. This is the first fixture of the Indian team in 2020 and Virat Kohli will be keen to hit the ground running as he continues the search for his first major trophy as captain.
The T20 series opener on Sunday is significant on two counts. First, it sees the return of fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah to the Indian camp.
Bumrah had been sidelined since September following stress fracture in his lower back. As he did not undergo surgery, Bumrah has been able to make a quicker than expected return to the team.
India badly need Bumrah's experience as the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar (groin), Hardik Pandya (back) and Deepak Chahar (back) remain on the sidelines due to serious injuries.
The other major talking point is the ongoing protests in the north-eastern part of India, including Guwahati in the state of Assam, over the controversial citizenship amendment act. Violent protests have paralysed the city, forcing the state administration to put stringent security measures in place to avoid any untoward incidents.
Spectators will reportedly be allowed to only bring keys, mobile phones, wallet and purse to the ground.
India play Sri Lanka in the three-match T20 series before Australia visit for a three-match ODI series.
