India Opts for Training Over Intra-Squad Match Ahead of Test Series Against Australia
Steven Smith, the Australian veteran, remarked on the benefits of centre-wicket practice, indicating that it would be conducive for the players to adjust to the local conditions. "Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you're going to get at Optus Stadium. [It's] probably going to be enough," he said.
In a shift of strategy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to cancel the planned three-day intra-squad match between India and India A at the WACA, opting instead for focused training sessions. This decision comes as India prepares for its first competitive match of the tour, the Test series against Australia, starting on November 22 in Perth.
The intra-squad match was initially scheduled to take place behind closed doors from November 15 to 17, but ESPNcricinfo reports that the Indian management has chosen to prioritize training during this period. The squad will engage in net sessions and simulate match scenarios on centre wickets at the WACA, which are expected to provide valuable preparation in conditions similar to those at the Optus Stadium.
Steven Smith, the Australian veteran, remarked on the benefits of centre-wicket practice, indicating that it would be conducive for the players to adjust to the local conditions. "Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you're going to get at Optus Stadium. [It's] probably going to be enough," he said.
This change in approach marks a departure from India's recent tours of Australia, where they typically commenced the red-ball leg with practice matches against domestic teams. In the 2020-21 series, they faced Australia A, while they played against a Cricket Australia XI before the 2018-19 series. The WACA match was originally intended to allow for some public attendance, echoing the success of earlier matches during the 2022 T20 World Cup, which attracted nearly 2,500 fans.
India's squad is scheduled to leave for Australia shortly after concluding their third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai on November 5. Under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, India A was also set to compete against the Test squad following their matches against Australia A in Mackay and Melbourne.
The recent decision reflects India's focus on ensuring their players are well-prepared for the demanding Test series, particularly given some squad members have had limited match exposure leading up to this pivotal tour.
