India vs PM XI: India Faces Off Against Australian Prime Minister’s XI in Two-Day Practice Match

India vs PM XI: Preview of the Game India is scheduled to engage in a two-day practice game with the Australian Prime Minister's XI in Canberra from 30th November 2024. This match would form a crucial part of India's preparation for their upcoming day-night Test at Adelaide as part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With the second Test in mind, this practice match will allow India to get used to the pink ball and prepare to the conditions for a day-night format.

India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

India will be coming off from the dominant win over Australia by 295 runs in the first Test match played at Perth's Optus Stadium. Outstanding bowling performances coupled with important centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli ensured a resounding victory. A vital 1-0 lead in the series now will make the Indian side go for all-out effort and look to build upon the same momentum as this practice match.

Key Players and Team Changes 

India's captain, Rohit Sharma, who had missed the first Test due to the birth of his child, will return to the squad. This brings up questions of the batting order, which would have to be decided, as KL Rahul and Jaiswal have proven to be a good opening combination. There is a worry that Rohit's form may have suffered in the New Zealand series, and with his inclusion in the team, batting line-up can be expected to undergo some changes. KL Rahul may find himself promoted to bat at number three, or they might send Rohit all the way down to middle order.

Role of Washington Sundar in the team

The other important factor would be the role of Washington Sundar in the team. Even though Sundar has performed with both bat and ball, Ashwin could pose a more threat with the pink ball, especially on the Adelaide track that is going to be spin-friendly.

Now, it is upon the team management to whether to continue Sundar in the role or bring Ashwin into the playing XI in the second Test.

Australia's Prime Minister's XI Team

On the Australian side, the Prime Minister's XI will be coached by Tim Paine and led by Jack Edwards, an all-rounder from New South Wales. The team has fresh faces and domestic cricket stars, including teenager Sam Konstas and wicketkeeper Oliver Davies. The bowling attack will be led by Scott Boland, who has impressed in his limited Test opportunities.

This practice match gives young players in the Australian domestic circuit a chance to face world-class opposition, gaining valuable experience ahead of future international duties.

India's Preparation for Day-Night Test

The practice match is vital to India in getting accustomed to the pink ball and adjusting to the day-night Test format. This shorter match will be an opportunity for the players to acclimatize to the challenges that this will pose in terms of playing under lights and adapting to different playing conditions. Thus, the performance in this match will be pivotal for India's preparations towards their day-night Test match scheduled in Adelaide.