The Indian cricket team has focused heavily on preparing its players—both seasoned veterans and promising youngsters—for the tough Australian conditions ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During a three-day practice session in Perth, the team prioritized quality time in the middle, aiming to adapt to the pitches and build confidence for the high-stakes series. Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar shed light on the collaborative planning with senior players and the management to make the most of this crucial preparation period.
India’s return to Test cricket in Australia after a four-year gap comes with added pressure, as they aim for a third consecutive series win down under. The stakes are higher this time with vital World Test Championship (WTC) points at play. India needs a commanding 4-1 series victory to secure a spot in the WTC final. This has made their Perth training camp a cornerstone of their strategic buildup.
“Before we left for Australia, Gautam Gambhir, Rohit Sharma, and the coaching staff discussed how to optimize these three days,” Abhishek Nayar said in a BCCI-released video. “The goal was clear: to give younger players and experienced ones ample time in the center, helping them adapt to and understand the conditions.”
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Reflecting on the sessions, Abhishek Nayar expressed satisfaction with the progress made. “We wanted to simulate real game scenarios. On the first day, players were treated as if they were playing an actual match. If they got out, they were allowed a second chance, which gave them an opportunity to adapt. By their second outings, they seemed more comfortable and better adjusted to the conditions.”
Day two extended the focus, integrating both quality batting practice and tailored sessions for the bowlers. The emphasis on the bowling unit stood out, as seamers like Jasprit Bumrah bowled long spells—Bumrah delivering up to 18 overs—to enhance match fitness and readiness.
“It wasn’t just about bowling; it was about building workload and creating a match-like intensity,” Abhishek Nayar added. Despite the productive sessions, the team faced mixed fortunes in practice matches. Virat Kohli, under scrutiny for his recent form, showed glimpses of rhythm with scores of 15 and 30, while young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal shone with an unbeaten 58.
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However, injuries remain a concern. KL Rahul took a blow to his arm, though he has resumed training, while Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the opening Test due to a thumb fracture. With challenges mounting, India’s preparation underlines their intent and determination to adapt quickly, as they brace for what promises to be a fiercely contested series in Australia.
