Nottingham: It’s a struggle for Zaheer Khan and, while he himself told The Telegraph (on Tuesday) that he’s been trying his hardest, only an absolute miracle may see him make the starting line-up on Friday.

The India spearhead did a bit of physical training on Wednesday, but didn’t bowl at nets.

Zaheer was, of course, the MoM when India last played a Test at Trent Bridge — in 2007. Logically, Sreesanth should be his replacement.

Vice-captain Gautam Gambhir also isn’t at a 100 per cent, as his left elbow is still paining, but he’s set to take the field, with India 0-1 down in the four-match series.

Meanwhile, looking to capitalise on starts is young stand-in opener Abhinav Mukund. In the first Test, at Lord’s, he had 49 (117 minutes, 88 balls) and 12 (38 minutes, 32 deliveries).

“It was disappointing, but one got some confidence as well... I’ll be taking forward that confidence... This is just my second series and it has been a big change, coming straight from domestic cricket... Facing Fidel Edwards at 90 mph (in the West Indies) was a reality check,” Mukund said.

Mukund made the point that Virender Sehwag’s boots were “too big to fill” and he had no intention of trying to play like one of the “great openers.”

Refreshingly articulate, Mukund insisted that the team was actually up for the challenge. “On the way to becoming No.1, this team has conquered many challenges... It’s ready for the next... This is a four-Test series and we’re not looking back, but ahead.”

Notwithstanding the huge, 196-run, loss at Lord’s.