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The second Test of the three-Test series ended within three days as Indian batters failed the spin challenge in Pune. India lost their first ever Test series at home against New Zealand. As India's road to third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final becomes tougher, the team management has informed players that there will be no optional training session ahead of the third Test at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
As per a report by the Indian Express, the players were told hours after the 113-run defeat in Pune that they need to be available for two practice sessions on October 30 and 31.
“The team management has asked the players to be present for two days of practice on October 30 and 31. It’s compulsory and no one can skip it,” a source told the English daily.
Earlier, the team management has often allowed players to skip the practice session for a day. However, this time they want the players to fine-tune their skills after a series of batting collapses that led to two consecutive defeats.
It is common for fast bowlers and senior players skipping the practice session to manage their workload. But India are in desperate need of a win to improve their chances of qualifying for WTC final. After the New Zealand series at home, India have a tough road ahead with Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 starting next month.
Senior players take short break ahead of third Test
As the Test match ended early, skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul left the camp to be with their family before joining the team. The players have been allowed a two-day break before regrouping. Despite two consecutive losses, India have maintained their position at the top with a win percentage of 68.060. India have won eight out of 12 Tests in the current cycle.
How the WTC standings look
India are closely followed by Pat Cummins' Australia who have eight wins from 12 Tests as well. Sri Lanka occupy the third spot followed by South Africa and New Zealand. England are practically out of contention whereas Pakistan have an outside chance after their Test series win at home. Bangladesh and West Indies are out of contention too.
