India Secure Six-Wicket Win in Warm-Up Match Against PM’s XI
India’s preparation for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide began on a high note as they clinched a six-wicket victory over the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra. The match, shortened to 46 overs per side due to rain, served as a key practice game ahead of the upcoming Test. India successfully chased a target of 241, scoring 257/5, with significant contributions from Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and others.
The Prime Minister’s XI batted first and posted 240 runs, led by a scintillating century from 19-year-old Sam Konstas. His impressive knock of 107 off 97 deliveries showcased his shot-making abilities and composure against a seasoned Indian bowling attack. Konstas’s innings included some breathtaking strokes, such as a reverse-ramp off Akash Deep and a commanding hook for six off Harshit Rana. His efforts were complemented by Jacobs, who added 61 runs, but India’s bowlers, especially Harshit Rana with figures of 4-44, ensured the target remained within reach.
India’s response began with KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal opening the innings. While Jaiswal struggled with back discomfort during his innings, he still managed to contribute 45 runs before being dismissed while attempting an aggressive shot. Rahul, on the other hand, demonstrated his resilience and technical prowess, carefully navigating the challenging initial overs under twilight conditions. Both batters retired out after spending valuable time in the middle, giving others a chance to fine-tune their game.
Shubman Gill, batting at number three, looked confident during his stay at the crease, reaching a well-deserved half-century off 62 balls. His trademark short-arm pull shot and drives on the up showcased his range, though there were moments of vulnerability outside off stump. Gill eventually retired after his fifty, ensuring others could have time at the crease.
Rohit Sharma, returning to the team after paternity leave, batted at number four but managed only three runs before being caught at slip. Despite the brief stay, his presence was significant as he reacquainted himself with competitive cricket. Rohit’s ability to adapt to red-ball cricket has been key since his resurgence in 2019, and this outing marked another step in his preparation.
Washington Sundar played a composed knock of 42 not out, guiding the team to victory alongside contributions from Reddy, who also scored 42. The Indian batting lineup benefited from the twilight practice, tackling the movement of the pink ball effectively and adjusting to the conditions in Canberra.
For the Prime Minister’s XI, Scott Boland and Charlie Anderson impressed with the ball, with Anderson claiming two wickets. Boland, known for his precision and ability to extract movement, posed challenges for the Indian openers early on. Despite their efforts, the Indian batting depth ensured a comfortable chase.
Konstas emerged as the standout performer for the hosts. His century against an international-quality bowling attack drew attention and bolstered his reputation as a promising talent in Australian cricket. His confidence in taking on experienced bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana was a highlight of the game.
India’s bowling unit, led by Rana and Siraj, utilized the pink ball effectively. Rana’s double-wicket overs and disciplined lengths from the seamers kept the opposition in check. Siraj, in particular, relished the conditions and emphasized the importance of maintaining a back-of-length strategy with the pink ball.
The match provided India with crucial insights ahead of the Adelaide Test. While players like Gill and Jaiswal gained confidence with solid performances, areas of focus such as Rohit’s form and the middle order’s adaptability were also identified. The absence of key players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and R Ashwin in this game allowed India to test their bench strength and prepare under different scenarios.
As India heads to Adelaide, their victory in Canberra sets a positive tone for the series. With fine-tuning and tactical adjustments, the team appears ready to tackle the challenges of the pink-ball Test.