Just before a batsman is about to go onto the field, he gets a few last-minute instructions from a teammate. Along with the usual ‘stay cool, play your natural game,’ there is a small bit of advice delivered in half-jest. “And don’t forget to take off your helmet when you complete your 50. How else can everyone at home see your new hairstyle?” he sniggers.

While hairstyle, ear studs and tattoos are understandable, a bare fact still bothered one: How on earth will a shaved chest add value to the appearance on television? One poses this question to the biggest prankster in the team. He is ready to reply, but begs for a condition-of-anonymity clause. “You know what Dada did at Lords? We are ready for any eventuality,” he says as he runs away.