Indian Test Squad Trains in Secrecy Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy
India’s Test Squad Begins Training in Perth, Practice Sessions Shielded from Public View
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) fast approaching, the Indian Test squad has assembled in Perth and commenced training at the Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) Stadium. However, the team’s practice sessions have been shrouded in secrecy, with the grill bordering the practice area covered to prevent public scrutiny.
The Indian contingent arrived in Australia in two batches on Sunday and Monday and will undergo a 10-day acclimatization and training period before the BGT opener. However, uncertainty looms over the availability of captain Rohit Sharma for the first Test due to personal reasons.
A Forbes cricket journalist shared an image of the practice nets at the WACA, revealing that they were covered with a black sheet to block public view. Notably, the Indian team is not training at the venue of the first Test, Optus Stadium, which is just a short drive away.
India opted to cancel their practice game against India ‘A’, who are also touring Australia. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and his team believed that extended net sessions would be more beneficial than a practice match.
India, who recently slipped to number two in the World Test Championship (WTC) table, are eager to redeem themselves after a disappointing 0-3 whitewash in the home Test series against New Zealand. To qualify for the WTC final for the third consecutive time, India must win four of the five Tests in the BGT.
The Indian team’s decision to shield their practice sessions from public view has sparked speculation about their strategies and preparations. However, it is clear that the team is determined to put in the hard work and regain their dominance in Test cricket.