Under the relentless mid-afternoon sun on Wednesday, October 30, India’s cricket team engaged in an intense practice session at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. The extraordinary heat did little to deter the national squad’s batting unit from their committed preparations. Separated on either side of the main pitch, players paired up to face a barrage of deliveries, each set of nets marked with white lines demarcating the off and leg stumps, providing clear guidance for the batters as they honed their skills.
The main pitch itself had been horizontally rolled prior to the practice, with a heavy roller—an effort typically intended to lure spinners into more active roles during the match. However, the blazing sunlight, substantial enough to dry out the pitch, added yet another layer of complexity to the preparations. An array of net bowlers was summoned to challenge nearly all members of India’s squad, each taking their turn at attempting to fine-tune their techniques.
A full day still remains before the much-anticipated third Test match sets off, but India’s earnest dedication during practice hints at a deep determination to enhance their performances in Mumbai. Thus far, the series has seen India’s batting unit falter in three out of four innings. The curated reddish soil surface at Wankhede, along with its meticulous preparation, suggests that conditions may not be any more forgiving in the upcoming Test.
Amid this challenging backdrop, Indian cricket luminaries Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are under increased scrutiny. Both players, familiar with the Mumbai pitch from countless past encounters, are now tasked with proving their mettle. Between them, Kohli and Sharma have collectively managed a top score of just 70 in the entire series. For a team already teetering, their responsibility looms large.
A communal huddle commenced the practice session, a moment for the team to unite following the unexpected defeat in Pune. Kohli, a whirlwind of energy, was fervently animated during his time at the crease, darting between deliveries from spinners to pacers, his spirit undampened.
. Contrastingly, Rohit Sharma approached his session with a calculated and precise methodology, spending a notably long duration on drills before seeking the relief of the shade.
“There’s nothing but love for them everywhere,” insisted assistant coach Abhishek Nayar before the practice began. “Yes, when players who’ve come so far hit a rough patch, it’s crucial to give them space and trust in their dedication to rebound. You see, everyone is giving their all, from Kohli and Sharma to younger players like Shubman Gill.” Nayar’s insistence on patience was palpable as he stressed the collective effort and promise present in the team’s work ethic.
As Kohli and Sharma cross into their thirties, questions have inevitably arisen about diminishing reflexes, indicated by some dismissals this series. Still, both remain integral parts of the squad heading to Australia for a pivotal five-Test series. For India, already heralded for previous achievements on Australian soil, this tour is overshadowed by the urgent need to acquire vital World Test Championship points en route to a potential third consecutive final appearance.
The duo’s inclusion in the Indian squad signifies a continual focus on expressing ‘more intent,’ even in Test formats—an approach robustly advocated by the new coaching leadership. Overcoming personal form losses is essential, executed through tactics characterized by aggression, aligning with India’s broader strategic narrative. “When we talk about aggressive cricket—intent—there are inevitably moments when execution falters. Gauti Bhai [Gautam Gambhir] mentioned previously that against teams like Bangladesh, explosive innings might not always come through, but adhering to processes is vital,” remarked Nayar, acknowledging the batting group’s struggles, especially against spins.
Attempting transitional play styles casts the team into less certain waters, but Nayar remains optimistic. “There will be slumps as we push cricket forward, but patience is crucial for extending any show of brilliance,” he emphasized, expressing hope that this transitional phase’s low point heralds a long-lasting period of improved form for both individuals and the team in its entirety.
The upcoming Test in Mumbai not only offers a chance for India’s stellar duo to reclaim their impact but also stands as a litmus test for the team’s broader ambitions and resilience as they adjust to new paradigms of play.