Tamil Nadu head coach V. Yo Mahesh urged his players to be more ruthless ahead of the team’s second Ranji Trophy fixture against Uttarakhand here on Saturday.

“I think one important aspect is for us to be — once you have settled — ruthless. It’s not a question of talent, potential, or skill. Everything is in place. It’s just about how hungry we are,” said Yo Mahesh.

“One area that I have been very straightforward with the team about is to change our attitude when it comes to how we play. It’s important that we go there, be strong, and be tough, regardless of who the opponent is or what the situation is.”

On the learnings from the first game, the former TN player highlighted the bowling unit’s performance, especially the quicks, as heartening.

“We need to have little patience with the bowling department. But I see it as a great start. Out of the 10 wickets that fell in the first innings, the fast bowlers took 7. Fast bowlers are very critical for the Ranji Trophy. D. Deepesh had a great debut and showed he has an X-factor,” he added.

On the batters failing to convert starts, Yo Mahesh admitted the seniors have to take the onus. “I think it is important that the top order, one has to bat long for sure. If they are settled, they have to stay until the end, until we cross the line. It has been made crystal clear to them, and I am sure they will definitely do it in the coming games,” he said.