By the time V.V.S. Laxman walked to the ‘nets' at the WACA, bat-bag slung across shoulder, helmet in hand, the Indians were hard at work in their sections.
Rahul Dravid had arrived early with Trevor Penney, the fielding coach, and had discussed his batting grip, his back-lift, and the English system of batting.
Dravid had done what he had on Tuesday — getting Penney to act as if he were whipping the ball at him, so he could freeze his stroke in reaction and monitor the position of his bat and body as he lined up.
He had interrupted his session — been persuaded to interrupt it, to be accurate — to address the press; the first round of ‘nets' had begun.
In this time, Laxman completed some slips-catching, stretched himself on a giant, purple medicine ball, and began his walk from the ground — with its still green pitch — to the practice area.
If he was feeling the familiar pressure of his place in the side being questioned from outside, it didn't show in the tranquil Laxman walk, a smile at the ready.
“I don't think it has affected Laxman too much,” said Dravid, when asked if he sensed Laxman was under pressure. “To be honest, I have been with him the last two days — I haven't read some of these comments — and I don't think Lax is bothered either.
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