BGT 2024-25: Indian Bowlers Discuss Pink-Ball Practice Ahead of Adelaide Showdown

Canberra, Nov 30 (NationPress) As Team India readies itself for the pink-ball Test against Australia in Adelaide, the visiting fast bowlers have shared their training insights regarding the ball that is still relatively new for certain members of the squad.

India kicked off the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a stunning performance, securing a 295-run victory in the first Test at Perth Stadium. With an early lead in the series, attention now turns to the pink-ball Test scheduled to be played under floodlights in Adelaide.

Unlike the standard red-ball used in Test matches, the pink-ball offers increased swing and maintains its condition longer, making it more challenging for batters to dominate. In preparation for the upcoming Test against Australia, India will engage in a two-day pink-ball match against the Prime Minister's XI in Canberra. Although rain delayed Day 1 at Manuka Oval, the BCCI released a video showcasing India's practice session with the pink-ball.

Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna, who has participated in two Tests in South Africa, shared his observations, noting that the pink-ball is 'larger and heavier' compared to the red-ball.

"When we picked up the pink ball, it was slightly bigger than the red ball, and the seam, from what I understand, is more tightly bound, making it heavier and allowing for more movement off the seam. I believe it will behave differently than the red ball, especially when the lights are on. It also affects reverse swing. As bowlers, we are learning more with each session leading up to the game," Krishna stated in the video.

Another Indian pacer, Mukesh Kumar, mentioned that the seam on the pink ball is less noticeable, making it challenging for batters to read the ball's shine.

"The seam isn't immediately visible. Some batters rely on the shine for guidance, but with the pink ball, it’s hard to tell which side is shining. It tends to skid off the surface," he explained.

"Batters face significant challenges as the pink ball generates a lot of bounce," Akash Deep added.

Uncapped pacer Yash Dayal discussed bowling to India's star players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating, "I have bowled to Virat and Rohit bhai, and I feel that the ball isn’t swinging much; maintaining a straight seam position is crucial. If you keep your line and length accurate, the ball will perform well on its own."

India has played four pink-ball Tests, winning three. Their sole defeat occurred against Australia in the 2020-21 series, where Indian batters were dismissed for just 36 runs—their lowest in a Test innings.

In a significant boost, India welcomed back regular captain Rohit Sharma, who rejoined the squad after missing the first Test due to the birth of his second child.

Conversely, Australia will be without their leading pacer Josh Hazlewood, who will miss the second Test due to a side strain.