The Indian cricket team is currently the center of discussion on the Australia tour. The team’s performance was excellent in the first Test, but the practice for the pink ball Test will be the real test. Let’s take a look at every detail of this exciting journey.
India vs Australia: Importance of PM XI warm-up match
Pink ball game: Why is it so important?
Playing with the pink ball is completely different from the white ball or the red ball. Not only is the behavior of the ball different, but its visibility under the floodlights also challenges the players.
- For Indian players, practice with the pink ball is extremely important in Australian conditions.
- Last time, everyone remembers Team India’s score being reduced to 36 in Adelaide. This time the team does not want to repeat this mistake.
Weather condition: Will rain become an obstacle?
Effect of weather in Canberra
Continuous rain since Saturday has raised questions over this practice match.
- Today’s forecast: Light rain in the morning, and possibility of storm by afternoon.
- Pitch cover: Inspection was scheduled at 9:15 am, but rain prevented the start of the game.
Will India get enough practice?
If the rain continues, this practice match will remain a mere formality. The Indian team needs a few overs of practice before the Adelaide Test, so that they can further strengthen their strategy.
Preparation of key players
Return of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill
- Rohit Sharma: Both the fitness and form of Rohit, who returned to the team after paternity leave, are under question.
- Shubman Gill: Shubman, who returned to the nets after a thumb injury, showed confidence during practice.
- Gill said, “It was better than I expected. I did not feel any discomfort.”
Big opportunity for young players
- Young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akshdeep, and Dhruv Jurel will have a chance to play with the pink ball in this match.
India’s pink ball test record
A look at the performance so far
- India has played 4 pink ball tests so far.
- Won 3 of these and lost 1.
- The worst experience was the Adelaide Test in 2020, when the whole team was all out for 36 runs in the second innings.
Key players: Kohli, Ashwin, and Bumrah
- Virat Kohli: 277 runs in 6 innings, including a brilliant innings of 136 runs.
- Ravichandran Ashwin: India’s most successful bowler with 18 wickets in 4 matches.
- Jasprit Bumrah: His deadly bowling with the pink ball has won India many matches.
Australia’s pink ball Test record
Unbeatable record at home
- Australia has lost only 1 match out of 12 pink ball Tests played at home.
- Looking at this record, it is clear that India will have to show the highest level of their game to win.
Practice match updates
Status of the first day
- The first day’s play was canceled due to continuous rain and wet outfield.
- This match will now be played in 50-over format.
Expectations for the second day
- If the weather cooperates, both teams will get a chance to play.
- During this time India can finalize its batting and bowling combination.
India’s strategy
Change in batting order?
Pujara suggested, “If Rohit wants to open, then KL Rahul should bat at number three.”
It will be interesting to see what decision the team management takes on this.
Variety in bowling
This is the first experience of bowling with the pink ball in the Indian bowling unit. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami will have special responsibility.
Australia’s preparations
Pressure on Mornus Labuschagne and Steve Smith
- Both batsmen failed in the first Test.
- Ricky Ponting has advised them to take inspiration from Kohli.
Absence of Josh Hazlewood
Scott Boland has been included in the team in place of Hazlewood. It will be interesting to see how Boland performs.
Conclusion
This practice match between India and Australia is the last chance to prepare for the Adelaide Test. However, rain and weather conditions have made it difficult. It is important for the Indian team to make the most of this opportunity, whether the match is completed or just a few overs are played.
FAQs
1. How many pink ball Tests has India played?
India has played 4 pink ball Tests so far, winning 3 and losing 1.
2. What is the significance of the pink ball?
The pink ball behaves differently under floodlights, making it more challenging than the traditional red ball.
3. Which Indian players are participating in the practice match?
Players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Akshdeep, and Dhruv Jurel are participating in this practice match.
4. What is Australia’s pink ball Test record?
Australia has lost only 1 match out of 12 pink ball Tests played at home.
5. Can rain affect the practice match?
Yes, the match can be affected due to continuous rain and wet outfield.