Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: India cancel intra-squad match ahead of first test in Perth

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 will get underway on November 22 in Perth.

India and Australia are set to resume their historic rivalry in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series. The first test of the five-match series is scheduled to kick off at the Perth Stadium, also known as Optus Stadium, on November 22.

This Border-Gavaskar Trophy is one of the most prestigious trophies in the test format for both these teams. Some of the Australians have rated the importance of this series at par with the historic Ashes rivalry with England.

The Indian team will be aiming for a third consecutive test series victory on Australian soil, while Australia will look to turn around things this time and defeat India in a test series after a decade.

India cancel intra-squad game, opt for extra training sessions

Originally, India’s preparation plans for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 included a three-day intra-squad warm-up match against India A at the WACA in Perth ahead of the first test. The game was scheduled to take place from November 15 to 17. However, the BCCI has now scrapped it and opted for an alternative approach.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the BCCI and India’s team management have decided to cancel the intra-squad match in favour of an intensive three-day training camp at the WACA. This change will allow players to participate in net sessions instead of a formal match. Also, these sessions will include centre wicket match simulation scenarios.

India’s revised plans mark a change in their approach from their recent tours to Australia. In 2020-21, India began their red-ball campaign with a three-day game against Australia A, and in 2018-19, they faced Cricket Australia XI in a four-day game before the test series.

The Indian team are set to depart for Australia after the third test against New Zealand in Mumbai on November 5.

Australian players will have access to the WACA ground after India conclude their training camp. Speaking about the preparations, Australian batter Steven Smith expressed confidence, emphasizing that their centre wicket practice sessions would offer good exposure to conditions expected in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener.

“Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you’re going to get at Optus Stadium. It’s probably going to be enough.” Smith said.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.