The BCCI posted highlights of Day 2 of the intra-squad game on their social handles. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj looked in great rhythm as they tested the Indian batters in the pace-friendly conditions at WACA.
The Indian cricket team is playing an intra-squad match at the WACA ground ahead of the first test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The first test will be played at the Optus Stadium in Perth. It’s known to assist the pacers with extra bounce and its fast nature.
They were very disciplined with their lines and lengths and troubled the batters with the new ball. It’s a great sign for the visitors as Bumrah and Siraj are the only experienced pacers in the Indian squad. There are chances that Mohammed Shami may join the squad later on but for now, they’ll have to be on their toes.
Padikkal impressed, Jasprit Bumrah and pacers troubled the openers
Abhimanyu Easwaran who may open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal was struggling against Bumrah and Siraj with the new ball. The opener clearly looked in discomfort at the condition at WACA.
Devdutt Padikkal seemed to be in good touch in the video shared by BCCI. He could be seen playing shots against all the bowlers, particularly the spinners. Harshit Rana also bowled well. He was seen using the short ball to good use. Rana may play as the third seamer in the first test.
Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was bowling leg spin. It might be a possibility that India will play an extra pacer with Jaiswal playing as an all-rounder. Shubman Gill sustained a finger injury while fielding. He was immediately to for scans and there’s no update regarding his injury.
Considering how things stand at the moment, it looks like KL Rahul will open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Gill if fit, will bat at 3 and if not then India may open with Easwaran and KL Rahul will bat at 3. Rahul also got hit on the elbow off Prasidh Krishna and left the field immedaitely. BCCI then updated that he’s fit and will be available for the first test.