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The Indian cricket team, gearing up for their upcoming tour of Australia, has opted to forgo a practice match against India 'A' in favor of extended net sessions. This decision, reported by PTI, stems from the team's desire to maximize their preparation for the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, beginning in November. The Indian squad, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, is determined to defend their BGT title, a feat they have achieved consistently over the past decade.
The BGT holds significant importance for India, not just for its historical rivalry with Australia, but also as part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. A strong performance in the series is crucial for India's chances of securing a top-two finish in the WTC standings, which would guarantee their participation in the final. The Indian team, however, is entering the tour after a disappointing loss in the recent home series against New Zealand, adding another layer of pressure to their preparations.
The Indian team's decision to prioritize net sessions highlights their focus on adapting to the unique conditions of Australia. The WACA centre strip, known for its bounce, closely resembles the Perth Stadium track, where the first Test of the BGT series will be played. The team's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, and senior players believe that extended time in the nets will give their batters the necessary exposure to adjust to the Australian pitch and improve their performance. This strategic decision reflects the importance placed on individual practice and technical refinement in the lead-up to such a high-stakes series.
Source: India cancel intra-squad match on Australia tour, want more time in the nets: Report