Updated On: 22 June, 2019 07:48 AM IST | | Harit N Joshi
There were concerns about the toe-crusher from pace ace Jasprit Bumrah that hit Vijay on Thursday but the all-rounder simply said that he was feeling better and gave no indication if he was going to play today

Vijay Shankar is all smiles during a media interaction at Southampton yesterday. Pic/PTI
Southampton: Before India embarked on their World Cup journey, the first four games upfront against tough teams — South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan — were viewed as crucial to Virat Kohli & Co's chances of progressing to the semi-finals. India won three [one washout] and then headed for a mini break and reassembled just a few days before their match against Afghanistan here at the Ageas Bowl today.
Relaxed atmosphere
They have had two practice sessions since and the mood in the camp seemed relaxed especially as the big challenge upfront had been conquered. However, that does not mean there will be any let up when they play Afghanistan today, said Vijay Shankar, who also indicated that there won't be any major changes in the playing XI.