Anil Kumble 'Surprised' By BCCI's Move Following New Zealand Test Series Humiliation

Anil Kumble, former Indian cricketer and coach, expressed his surprise over the BCCI’s decision to cancel the practice match ahead of India’s first Test against Australia in Perth, starting on November 22. The practice match against India A was initially scheduled, but in the wake of India’s 3-0 whitewash by New Zealand in the Test series, the BCCI decided to scrap it.

Kumble, speaking during a discussion on JioCinema, emphasized the importance of match practice, stating, “I’m a bit surprised that India don’t have a practice match going into the first Test because that would have been an ideal preparation. No matter how much you practice in the nets, going out in the middle and facing a few bowlers in the match is totally different.” Kumble’s comments underline the value of real match scenarios, which cannot be replicated through net sessions alone.

Meanwhile, Indian players KL Rahul and Dhurv Jurel are traveling to Melbourne to join the India A squad for their second four-day game against Australia A, starting November 7 at the MCG. Rahul, who played in the New Zealand series but was dropped after poor performances, will look for valuable game time ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Jurel, who hasn’t yet played in India’s home Test season, will also seek match practice.

The main Indian team will travel to Perth soon to prepare for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, followed by other games in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.