AUS vs IND: Indian batters focus on red-ball preparations ahead of Brisbane Test

Reeling from a crushing 10-wicket loss in the pink-ball Test, Team India, led by skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli, has turned its focus to red-ball preparations in Adelaide, determined to bounce back in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The Indian squad opted to stay back in Adelaide for an intensive training session, prioritising defensive techniques and judgement against red-ball deliveries. Meanwhile, the Australian team has already moved to Brisbane ahead of the third Test. “Preparations for the Brisbane Test start right here in Adelaide,” the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted on X, sharing glimpses of the team’s rigorous net session.

Under scrutiny for his recent performances, Rohit Sharma is keen to shake off his poor form. With just 142 runs and a solitary half-century in his last 12 innings, the skipper faced the Indian pacers and spinners in a bid to regain his rhythm. Adjusting his batting position to No. 6, Rohit struggled in the previous Test, falling to Pat Cummins and a sharp delivery from Australia’s attack.

Virat Kohli, who broke his century drought in Perth, also faced challenges with dismissals in both innings of the pink-ball Test. However, his intent was evident during the nets, as he began cautiously and gradually found his fluency.

Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who starred with a sensational 161 in the opening Test, showcased his flair with an aggressive approach during practice, even stepping out to Indian spinners. In contrast, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul opted for a more measured approach, with Rahul focusing on solid defense and Pant mixing it up with a few inventive shots.

The bowling unit included Harshit Rana, Akash Deep, and Yash Dayal, along with seasoned spinners Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Washington Sundar. The team also made use of throwdown specialists to simulate match scenarios. However, pace spearheads Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, along with all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, appeared to have a lighter workload.

India will travel to Brisbane on Wednesday, aiming to regroup and adapt to conditions at the Gabba. With the series delicately poised, the team hopes to overcome their batting woes and mount a strong comeback in the pivotal third Test.