Since the conclusion of the third Test between India and Australia in Melbourne, controversies have been buzzing among fans. One such incident that caught everyone’s attention was the stark difference in the practice surfaces provided to the two teams. As images from the net sessions circulated on social media, fans were quick to highlight the disparity.
While Australian batters trained on fresh, lively surfaces, the Indian team had to practice on worn-out ones, sparking widespread frustration. Over the weekend, the Indian team, including stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and bowlers such as Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj, began their preparations for the crucial MCG clash.
Reports from their net session described the pitch as low-bouncing, with even short-pitched deliveries barely rising to waist height. The challenging conditions took a toll, as skipper Rohit Sharma was struck on the knee during practice. Addressing concerns about the incident, pacer Akash Deep reassured fans.
ALSO READ: Sanju Samson Backs Dhruv Jurel’s Wicket-Keeping Role In Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 Plans
“I think this wicket was meant for white-ball practice, which is why the ball kept low at times. These blows are common in training, and there’s nothing major to worry about,” he explained on Sunday. In stark contrast, the Australians enjoyed fresh, well-prepared practice pitches, offering them optimal preparation ahead of the Boxing Day Test. This disparity fueled accusations of favoritism, but MCG curator Matt Page clarified the situation.
Significant difference between the practice pitches both teams have got in preparation for the Boxing Day Test.#bgt pic.twitter.com/MYyMKZpEGi
— Sandipan Banerjee (@im_sandipan) December 23, 2024
“We allocate new practice wickets only three days before the match, as per the rules. We received the Indian team’s schedule in advance and followed standard protocol. It applies to all teams,” Page stated.
The Australian players, who had their first net session on Monday, utilized these fresh surfaces, while the Indian team opted to skip training that day. However, Page confirmed that when India resumes practice, they too will receive new wickets, ensuring parity in preparation conditions.
ALSO READ: MCG Curator Matt Page Reveals Pitch Plans For Thrilling Boxing Day Test
The controversy surrounding the practice pitches underscores the high stakes of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. As both teams gear up for the pivotal fourth Test, these off-field debates only add to the intensity of the contest, with fans eager to see how the players respond on match day.
