In order to simulate matches and play a warm-up match against India A at the WACA field, the Indian team management has agreed to let the public observe their center-wicket training sessions from Friday through Sunday. According to a story published by ‘The Australian’ on Wednesday, the CEO of the firm has sent a team of construction workers who are now renovating the WACA a letter instructing them not to observe, take photos, or use drones during the India net sessions.
A leaked email that officials issued to workers involved in the WACA refurbishment, due to be completed next year, reveals the extent to which India is keeping their practice guarded.
“Email sent by Adam Sauzier of ADCO Constructions, who is building the new facility, not only are officials preventing the public from watching India train, but they have also given strict instructions to those working in the precinct not to take a peek.”
“India and India A are training at the WACA Ground from Tuesday, November 12, to Sunday, November 17, as part of India’s preparation for the Test Match at Perth Stadium the following week,” the newspaper stated, quoting the email.
“During all training sessions, please do not take any photos or videos or fly any drones, of the training sessions and please do not sit and watch the sessions.”
The major newspaper reported, “The memo also refers to an India v India A match that was scheduled from Friday to Sunday but has since been scrapped because the tourists prefer to have center wicket practice instead.”
People at the BCCI, however, flatly denied sending such an official message when questioned.
“From India or not from India Such a desire has resulted in the need for closed-door online sessions, at least in an official capacity. Everyone is welcome to the practice session.
“Obviously, if a hitter is out in the first over, he won’t get access to the center wicket in a three-day official first-class match. “Any number of batters can bat in the match simulation,” the insider continued.
The management reportedly wants an Akash Deep or Mohammed Siraj to bowl at Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli.
“This was the same practice during COVID times when India travelled to England with around 23-24 players,” he stated.
Kohli joins the nets for India’s first official practice.
On Wednesday, the whole Indian contingent, along with a few members of the India A squad, attended an afternoon net session at the WACA.
Along with other key hitters, Virat Kohli batted in the nets for a long time. Though coach Gautam Gambhir remained optimistic that he may join the team before to the first Test, captain Rohit Sharma has not yet joined the squad as he awaits the birth of his second kid. However, a confirmation is still pending.
