NEW DELHI: In preparation for their first ODI in Mohali against Australia, the Indian team put in a rigorous practice session in the nets in Mohali on Thursday. This ODI marks the beginning of a three-match series between India and Australia.
Notably, this series against Australia serves as India's last competitive fixture before the ICC Cricket World Cup, which is set to take place in India starting from October 5.
Key players, including Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul, who is captaining the team for the first two ODIs, and Suryakumar Yadav, were all seen honing their skills during the practice session.
This upcoming series holds significant importance for Ruturaj and Tilak, as it provides them with valuable game time ahead of their participation in the Asian Games men's cricket tournament, commencing on October 3.
For Suryakumar, this series could be pivotal in determining his future as an ODI player. His recent string of underwhelming performances in the 50-over format has led to calls from fans for his removal from the squad.
With just two half-centuries and an average of approximately 24, having scored 537 runs in 27 ODIs, time is running out for Suryakumar.
In contrast, he has been in sensational form in T20Is, experiencing one of the most remarkable peaks of his career in that format. 1,841 runs in 53 T20I matches at an average of over 46, a strike rate of above 172 and three centuries, and 15 fifties sit in contrast with his ODI stats.
