India's IPL generation playing good Test cricket a mystery, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar said it is a "mystery" how the IPL generation has adapted so well to Test cricket, comparing the transition from T20s to the longest format to pop singers attempting classical ragas.India's IPL generation playing good Test cricket a mystery, says Sanjay Manjrekar (PTI Photo)Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar is puzzled by how the IPL generation has been able to seamlessly adapt to the demands of Test cricket. He compared the transition from T20 cricket to the longest format to pop singers attempting to perform classical ragas.Manjrekar marvelled at how a generation that has grown up playing T20 cricket has made the technical and mental adjustments required to succeed in red-ball cricket. He said the stark difference between the two formats makes their success in Tests even more impressive.SL vs IND, 1st Test Day 5: Highlights | Report"Modern pop singers, if they are asked to do classical singing, ragas, then it will be very difficult. But these people are doing that. It is a mystery to me that the generation of IPL, the generation of T20, how do they play such good Test cricket? In both game of ball and game of gain," Manjrekar said on The Great Indian Cricket Show on Doordarshan. Manjrekar said the difference is particularly noticeable in batting, where the demands of the two formats are vastly different."More in case of batting, because there is a lot of difference between T20 batting and Test batting," he added. T20 cricket demands an attacking approach from the outset, with batters expected to score quickly and take risks. Test cricket, on the other hand, requires patience, discipline and the ability to concentrate for long periods.The IPL has given a generation of Indian cricketers regular exposure to high-pressure T20 cricket. Young players have also had the opportunity to share dressing rooms with experienced international stars, helping them develop their skills and confidence.Despite that, several of these players have successfully made the transition to Test cricket. They have shown they can adapt their approach, curb their attacking instincts when required and spend long periods at the crease.India's current Test squad includes several players who have come through the IPL and gained significant experience in T20 cricket. Their ability to switch between formats has become an important part of modern international cricket.- EndsPublished By: Saurabh KumarPublished On: Aug 20, 2026 17:08 IST