RP and Pathan remembered just four words thrust upon their minds by Prasad —- aage dalna hai, bus. RP admitted: “We don’t have the kind of pace like the Australians. So swing was our best bet.”

Prasad has been a great force behind this inexperienced bunch. “Why should I take any credit for the performance? It’s the boys who have done the job,” he said humbly.

But Pathan is the first one to acknowledge his contribution. “Venky (as he is fondly called) is always talking to us during practice or the match. Since he was a pretty good bowler, he understands you. If he sees someone just sitting there he will ask questions and offer help. That’s very important as a coach.”

In the lead-up this Test match, it’s just been Prasad, Pathan and the four orange cones. The coach made his bowler get the exact right areas that they so diligently changed from batsman to batsman. RP and Ishant went through such paces too. “Venky is like a coach, mentor and like a friend too,” said Ishant.