India’s fielding coach, T. Dilip, brings innovation and energy to the team’s training sessions. Known for introducing unique drills and rewarding players’ efforts with medals, Dilip’s methods have fostered visible improvement in India’s fielding. Ahead of the crucial third Test against Australia at the Gabba, Dilip devised a creative practice routine again, underlining his commitment to keeping players sharp and engaged.
In a video shared by the BCCI, T Dilip was seen splitting the team into three groups and challenging them to hit six different targets of different sizes with a maximum of 18 balls per group. The drill honed their accuracy and added a competitive edge to the training. Since his appointment, Dilip’s strategies have been pivotal in elevating India’s fielding standards, a factor that stood out in recent ICC tournaments.
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Meanwhile, India faces selection dilemmas for the third Test, particularly in their top order. Speculation swirls around whether Rohit Sharma will return to his opening slot and whether he has regained his rhythm. Encouragingly, Thursday’s nets session showcased positive signs, with Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill displaying improved back-foot play, a critical skill for the fast-bowler-friendly Gabba pitch.
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In terms of the bowling attack, India may reconsider their combinations. Harshit Rana could find himself back on the bench as the team balances its batting depth and bowling strength. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar is pushing R. Ashwin for a spot in the playing XI, providing selectors with a tough choice.
The Gabba, a fortress for Australia for decades, has seen cracks in its dominance recently. Australia has lost two of their last four Tests at this venue, both occurring in January. These defeats underline a pattern of late-season vulnerability.
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However, early-season Tests, like the current one, tend to favour fast bowlers, a trend likely to be amplified by rain forecasts for the match. As both teams gear up for this pivotal contest, India will hope their intensive preparations and Dilip’s innovative drills will give them an edge in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
