Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma in training session© AFP
The defeat of the Indian cricket team in the first two test matches against New Zealand has shocked the entire cricket world. Losing the series against the Kiwis meant that the Indian team had to face defeat at home for the first time in 12 years, before which it was defeated by England in 2012. The team management has reportedly taken this step in view of the results of the first two Tests. One drastic step was the cancellation of ‘alternate training’ sessions for all, including senior stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as well as fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah.
Traditionally, one of the training sessions has been kept optional for the players. The trend has been such that top batsmen and fast bowlers often skip that session and limit themselves to only light training. However, this is no longer the case.
According to a report in Indian Express, the team management has taken away the option of missing the practice session from every player.
“The team management has asked the players to be present for two days of practice on October 30 and 31. It is mandatory and no one can skip it,” the report quoted a source as saying.
India may have lost the Test series to New Zealand, with the visiting team already claiming a 0-2 lead, but the third Test in Mumbai is still a must-win for the team. Keeping in mind the World Test Championship situation, the Indian team cannot afford another collapse. Therefore, India head coach Gautam Gambhir and other members of the team management want participation from every player in all training sessions.
Following the conclusion of the Pune Test, the players were reportedly given a two-day break before regrouping to prepare for the final match of the series. People like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma reportedly flew to Mumbai with their families. Most of the Indian players along with the support staff will gather in Mumbai on October 27.
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