Team India’s preparations for the second Test against Australia, a pink-ball day-night affair starting December 6, have reached a fever pitch in Adelaide. In an intense training session, former captain Virat Kohli faced ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the nets, showcasing a fascinating battle between two of India’s best.
The duo skipped the tour game against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI after the opening day was washed out due to rain, opting instead for a focused practice session. Bumrah, fresh from leading India to a commanding 295-run victory in Perth, bowled with full intensity at Kohli, who recently rediscovered his form with a scintillating century.
Virat Kohli vs Jasprit Bumrah in nets at Canberra.
— Samar (@SamarPa71046193) December 1, 2024
– The Best vs The Best. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/BWTneEyKbv
Kohli’s Comeback Boosts India
Virat Kohli’s unbeaten hundred in the second innings in Perth marked his 30th Test century, a vital boost for India ahead of the pink-ball Test. Kohli’s return to form comes at a crucial time, given India’s history with the pink ball against Australia.
In their last day-night Test encounter at Adelaide, India faced a humiliating eight-wicket loss after being bowled out for just 36 runs in the second innings. This match also marked Kohli’s final appearance as Test captain. With the visitors carrying a 1-0 lead in the current five-match series, Kohli’s resurgence is expected to play a pivotal role in India’s performance under the lights in Adelaide.
India’s Winning Momentum
Before heading to Adelaide, India displayed strong form by defeating the Australian Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra. The rain-affected match was reduced to 46 overs per side, with India comfortably chasing down a target of 241 in 42.5 overs.
Youngster Shubman Gill impressed with a stylish half-century, quelling concerns about his thumb injury, while skipper Rohit Sharma experimented by batting at No. 4. Harshit Rana, who made a solid debut in Perth, continued to impress with a four-wicket haul, though he struggled initially with his line and length under the pink ball. The win further cemented India’s confidence as they gear up for the high-stakes day-night Test in Adelaide.
The intense net sessions, including the fiery contest between Kohli and Bumrah, underline India’s focus and determination to maintain their lead in the series against a formidable Australian side.
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