Day 1 of the two-day pink-ball match between Team India and the Prime Minister’s XI was washed out due to persistent rain. From morning till evening, steady drizzle loomed over the venue, thwarting any chances of play. Despite brief moments when the rain eased, allowing the ground staff to peel off the covers, heavier showers returned by 7 p.m., sealing the fate of the opening day.
The Indian players did make their way onto the field, hoping to acclimatize to the conditions and get valuable practice with the pink ball ahead of the crucial second Test. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans. As a result, Saturday’s spectators will receive refunds for their tickets. Day 2, however, promises a shortened 50-over game, scheduled to begin at 2:40 p.m. local time, as per reports from ESPN Cricinfo.
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This match was India’s sole opportunity to get familiar with the pink ball before the second Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25). The series opener in Perth saw India secure a commanding 295-run victory.
Rain washes out opening day of India’s tour game, 50-over per side match to be played on Sunday @NewsroomOdisha https://t.co/V7L3aKUbn7
— Newsroom Odisha (@NewsroomOdisha) November 30, 2024
Both sides struggled with the bat in the first innings, but India turned the tide with a stellar second-innings batting display, setting an imposing target that the Australian team could not overcome. India’s dominant performance in Perth has given them an early edge in the five-match series.
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As they prepare for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide starting on December 6, the Aussies will look to bounce back and reclaim momentum. Notably, the pink ball presents unique challenges, with its distinct movement and visibility under lights. The hosts will aim to exploit these conditions to even the series, while India will look to extend their lead and solidify their dominance in the BGT 2024-25.
