Indian Stars Sharpen Skills in 3-Day Simulation Game Ahead of Perth Test
The Indian cricket team, including stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant, participated in a rigorous three-day simulation game against India A at the WACA. The practice match aimed to acclimatize the players to Australian conditions, combining game-like scenarios and intense net sessions.
Highlights of the Simulation Game
Day 1: Batters Tested by Pacers
- Virat Kohli, who scored 15 in his first outing, returned for a second chance in the middle, ending unbeaten on 30.
- Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant struggled against a relentless pace attack, exposing challenges for the batting unit.
- India’s assistant coach, Abhishek Nayar, revealed that the initial “one dismissal per batter” rule was adjusted to allow players to bat twice, offering more time to adapt.
Day 2: Focus on Bowlers and Match Scenarios
- India’s leading bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, bowled extended spells. Bumrah delivered 18 overs, aiming to build rhythm for the Perth Test.
- Players also utilized net facilities outside the center wicket, blending quality practice with volume.
- Nayar highlighted the purpose of these sessions: “Day 2 was about our bowlers coming and bowling spells, bowling 15 overs each. It was about getting the guys into game sense.”
Strategy and Planning
Assistant Coach Abhishek Nayar shed light on the meticulous planning led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma:
- The simulation was designed to provide maximum time in the middle for experienced players and youngsters.
- With India playing Test cricket in Australia after four years, the team focused on adapting to conditions.
- Nayar emphasized the progressive improvement of players: “Second time around, the guys adapted better, understood the conditions, and were a lot more comfortable.”
Kohli’s Resilience and Team’s Preparations
Despite a slow start, Kohli showcased his adaptability by scoring an unbeaten 30 in his second stint. The team’s preparation reflects a commitment to addressing weaknesses and building match readiness ahead of the Test series.
The Road Ahead
With the Perth Test looming, India’s preparation strategy combines game simulations and focused training, aimed at bridging the gap between practice and real-match scenarios. As the Indian stars prepare for a challenging Australian summer, these sessions could prove pivotal in their pursuit of success down under.
