On a bright and sunny day in the city known for its contribution to the Industrial Revolution other than being home to two famous football clubs, a group of fans were peeping through the gates at Old Trafford, trying to catch a glimpse of the Indian team practicing at the ground.

The Men in Blue have been the talk of the town. At markets, restaurants, and trams if they think you are from India and here in connection with cricket, you get a respectful look.

‘You guys are going strong,’ they say, whether English or Pakistani. Five league matches gone and four to go, Virat Kohli’s team has done what it takes to earn that respect. Yet to be beaten and showing signs of being a strong unit, they are living up to the billing of favorites.

A day before they take on the West Indies, there were happy signs. Out for a while after pulling a hamstring in the Pakistan game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was back bowling normally. While the rest of the team had nets, he was going through his paces on a strip adjacent to the main one.

Bowling coach Bharathi Arun, strength and conditioning coach Shankar Basu and physiotherapist Patrick Farhart were watching. Bowling from a full run-up, he was at it for quite some time.

Even if he doesn’t play on Thursday, Bhuvneshwar is expected to be available for selection for the next match against England on June 30.