Team India faced a shocking defeat against New Zealand and this meant that their 12-year unbeaten home Test series streak ended on October 26 at Pune. The third and final Test against New Zealand will be held at Wankhede Stadium from November 1 to 5, the team management have ordered a two-day practice session in Mumbai.
No “Optional” Training Before 3rd Test
According to a report from the Indian Express, the 16-member Test squad has been advised that all the cricketers must attend both practice sessions, with no optional training permitted. Before that, players were allowed to miss training on the eve of a Test to remain fresh for games but after losing two home games in succession to the Black Caps, complete adjustments are being made here.
“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 was quoted as saying by Indian Express.
Team India Needs To Buckle Up To Stay In WTC Race
The Mumbai Test is India’s must-win in order to regain some pride and to keep their hopes alive for qualifying for the WTC 2025 final. So, practice sessions at Wankhede Stadium will be pretty intense and focused on hard work. India last played here during the late 2021 tour of New Zealand and won that game. But after such a huge loss, they cannot commit the same blunder again.
India last suffered whitewash on home soil in February 2000 when under Rohit Sharma, India looks forward to improve their performance here in Mumbai.
Rohit Sharma On WTC
“It’s too early to think about WTC. I’m just hurting because we lost the game, that is what I will say. I can’t think about what lies ahead and let it affect our chances,” said Rohit.
“We didn’t play well enough in these two games, and it’s hurting. There are things that we need to do as a unit, not just as batters but also as bowlers. It’s a collective failure, not because of a particular thing.
“When you win a Test, everyone deserves credit. when you lose, everyone takes the blame.”
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