The upcoming Test series between Pakistan and Australia has ignited discussions about the Perth pitch, even before the first ball is bowled. While the Optus Stadium isn’t the legendary WACA, it carries its legacy with its characteristic bounce and pace. Facing this challenging surface, the Pakistani team has devised an unorthodox training method to sharpen their skills against the anticipated seam movement.
They’ve incorporated a unique tool into their net sessions – a strategically placed slab of marble at the center of the practice pitch. “Pakistan have got a unique training device in the nets: a slab of marble. Mohammad Rizwan had it tilted on angle. They hope it will help them deal with Perth’s extra bounce,” revealed Louis Cameron on his X, posting pictures of the unconventional training method.
Pakistan haven’t tasted victory in a Test match on Australian soil since 1995. The Aussies, on the other hand, boast a dominant record, having lost only one of their last ten encounters against Pakistan.
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This time, however, the Perth pitch has less grass, a deliberate decision by Australia’s coach, Andrew McDonald, aimed at creating a balanced contest between bat and ball. Emphasis remains on bounce and pace, key factors in ensuring a thrilling match.
Pakistan have got a unique training device in the nets: a slab of marble. Mohammad Rizwan had it tilted on angle. They hope it will help them deal with Perth’s extra bounce #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/hvNzWJS9bH
— Louis Cameron (@LouisDBCameron) December 12, 2023
“My theory is to have it a little bit harder on top and a little bit less grass and see what impact that has on the game. Grass is pace and bounce. That’s what people are looking for and that’s essentially what I’m looking for in a really good long-format wicket,” explained Andrew McDonald, quoted by Hindustan Times.
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“It always creates a fair and even contest. I think the bounce. As you said, the Gabba presents bounce. Perth presents bounce as well. So I think anytime a team, in particular, coming from the subcontinent, is challenged with that first up, it makes hopefully for a slow start for them. Hopefully we can expose them on a bouncy surface. So that is an advantage,” he added.
With Pakistan’s unique preparation strategy and Australia’s deliberate pitch preparation, the stage is set for an intriguing test of skill and adaptability on the bouncy surface of Perth.
