India is set to take on the Prime Minister’s XI in a two-day pink-ball warm-up match at Canberra’s Manuka Oval as part of their preparations for the second Test against Australia. However, rain has delayed the start of the game, disrupting India’s plans to fine-tune their skills ahead of the crucial day-night Test in Adelaide.
A crucial fixture for India
Led by Rohit Sharma, India aims to adapt to the challenges of pink-ball cricket, especially after the struggles they faced during the 2020-21 tour of Australia, where they were infamously dismissed for 36 runs in Adelaide. The warm-up match provides an opportunity to get accustomed to the conditions and avoid past mishaps.
Opposition details
The Prime Minister’s XI features a blend of experienced Australian cricketers and emerging talents. Key among them is Scott Boland, who played a pivotal role against India during the World Test Championship (WTC) final, claiming five wickets, including those of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli. Boland is expected to test India’s top order once again.
As the Indian players gear up for this important practice session, the rain delay has added an extra layer of challenge to their preparation for what promises to be one of the most crucial matches of the series.