Fitness would be the key - Amre

India's preparation for the Emerging Players tournament in Australia included working on fitness and condition-specific skills during a five-day camp in Bangalore. The coach Pravin Amre said the series will challenge the players' fitness as they play seven one-dayers and two Twenty20s in a span of 13 days, starting July 20.

The players had a long batting and bowling session in the morning with a session devoted to fitness in the evening. The camp, conducted at the National Cricket Academy, concluded on July 15 with a practice game.

"The bowlers were asked to hit a short-of-length with one stump to aim at. Usually, they bowl a fuller length in India," said Amre. "The batsmen have practiced for short-pitched stuff; little, but important, things like that. And heavy focus was also on fitness sessions."

Amre said his players were aware of the importance of the tour for the improvement in their careers. "You look at the names in the squad; everyone is nearly India material and I am pleased with the fact that every player is aware of what a good performance in this tournament can do to their careers. There was no need for extra motivation from me."

The Indian squad, led by S Badrinath, is strong on paper, with seven players having international experience. But they can expect to face stiff opposition from Australia, who have several players solid first-class base, and New Zealand, led by Peter Fulton and including fast bowler Tim Southee.

Badrinath was confident about his team's potential but said he was aware of the stiff competition, especially in the Australian conditions. "Our team is strong on paper and it's bound to be a tough tour," he said. "It's a great opportunity for us to pit our skills against strong opposition."

Asked whether leading a group of men who were all competitors for the Indian spot in the future would be a difficult task, Badrinath said his experience in leading India A would be very useful. "As a captain, I have an important role in getting the group together and getting us work as a team. All the players are professionals and we are very inspired and enthusiastic to do well on this tour. We have enough games and we intend to give everyone a chance. Our aim of course is to win the tournament and everyone is mighty keen."

The tournament begins on July 20 with Australia, South Africa and New Zealand being the other competing teams. The teams play each other twice, and the final will be held on August 1. New Zealand won the tournament last year, beating Australia by three wickets in the final.