Cricket

The Indian cricket team has decided to open its center-wicket training sessions to the public from Friday to Sunday, allowing fans to witness their preparations for the upcoming Test match against Australia at Perth Stadium. This decision contradicts an earlier report in the Australian media that claimed the team's practice sessions would be closed to the public.The Australian newspaper had reported that construction workers refurbishing the WACA ground had received an email from their CEO instructing them not to watch, photograph, or fly drones during India's net sessions. The email reportedly stated that the public was barred from observing India's training, and even workers in the area were prohibited from taking a peek.However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has denied sending any such official communication. A source within the BCCI stated that neither India nor India A had requested closed-door net sessions. The practice sessions are open to all, and the Indian and Australian media are welcome to cover them as long as they wish.The source also revealed that India A players have arrived in Perth and will participate in an intra-squad match. This match will not be an official three-day first-class fixture, but rather a match simulation where batters can bat multiple times. The management aims to provide quality center-wicket training for bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, who will bowl to Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant.This approach is similar to the one adopted by India during their tour of England during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they traveled with a large squad of around 23-24 players. The team management believes that this format allows for more focused and effective training.

Mohammed Shami, India's veteran fast bowler, is on the road to recovery after undergoing surgery for an Achilles tendon injury sustained during the ODI World Cup last year. Currently undergoing rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, Shami recently began bowling in the nets.In a recent podcast appearance, Shami shared some amusing insights into India's training sessions. With 24 wickets in just seven innings at the ODI World Cup, Shami played a crucial role in India's unbeaten run to the final.Speaking about the friendly rivalry between batsmen and bowlers during net sessions, Shami revealed that Virat Kohli enjoys the challenge, while captain Rohit Sharma outrightly refuses to face him."With Virat, we always challenge each other. He likes to hit good shots, and I like to get him out. It helps us focus and simulate real-match scenarios," said Shami.Regarding Rohit, Shami smiled and said, "Rohit says he doesn't like to face me. He refuses to bat against me."Shami missed the entire Indian Premier League and T20 World Cup seasons this year due to his injury. He will require clearance from the NCA medical team and the BCCI before returning to competitive cricket.Speculation suggests that Shami may play a role in the two-Test series against Bangladesh in September-October this year. His return would be a significant boost for the Indian team, as he remains one of the most experienced and effective fast bowlers in the country.