Rohit highlighted the huge distinctions between practice games and actual match scenarios.
Providing valuable insights into Team India’s distinctive strategy, Rohit Sharma, the captain of the Indian cricket team, candidly explained the rationale behind the team’s decision to forgo First-Class practice Tests during overseas tours. Addressing questions about the impact of the absence of such matches on India’s performance in the initial Test against South Africa, Rohit highlighted the huge distinctions between practice games and actual match scenarios.
Contrary to the belief that participating in First-Class practice Tests would have significantly influenced the team’s performance, Rohit dismissed this notion. He attributed the decision to the substantial differences in playing conditions and situations encountered in practice matches versus real games. Following India’s defeat in the first Test, Rohit faced queries during a press conference regarding the team’s preference for intra-squad contests over traditional practice matches.
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According to Rohit, crucial factors influencing the decision include the unique characteristics of wickets and the caliber of opposition players faced in practice games. He underscored the disparity in bounce and pace experienced on actual match pitches compared to the conditions encountered in practice sessions.
“We have been playing practice matches in the last 4-5 years. We also tried to play first-class matches. The wicket that you get in the matches, you won’t get that in the practice matches. It is better that we prepare according to our requirements, we prepare the pitch according to our requirements. We can have control of the ground,” explained Rohit during the media conference.
Rohit drew on past tour experiences, emphasizing instances where practice pitches failed to replicate the bounce observed in actual matches. He pointed out significant differences, such as the ball flying over the head in matches compared to limited bounce in practice sessions.
While expressing openness to playing practice Tests during tours, Rohit highlighted the necessity for conditions in such matches to closely resemble those encountered in actual Test matches. Emphasizing the team’s preference for facing their own bowlers and customizing pitch preparations to align with their specific requirements, Rohit aims to ensure better adaptability to the challenges presented in Test cricket.
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