As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 stands evenly poised at 1-1, the Indian cricket team is leaving no stone unturned ahead of the crucial Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. On Saturday, the Indian bowlers were seen putting in relentless effort during a rigorous net session in Melbourne.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video clip on their official X handle, highlighting the players’ dedication and preparation. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Akash Deep, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar were all seen giving their best as they worked towards fine-tuning their skills before the high-stakes match.
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“There is no substitute for hard work. The relentless effort behind the scenes translates into success on the field. The Indian bowlers are ticking every box as we get ready for the Boxing Day Test,” BCCI captioned the video, showcasing the team’s determination.
Speaking to reporters earlier in the day, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja emphasized the need for a collective batting performance, particularly from the top order. He stressed the importance of a strong start to ease the pressure on the middle and lower-order batters.
“The top order needs to make runs. If they don’t, the pressure inevitably falls on the middle and lower-order batters, increasing their responsibility. As a team, we need the top order to perform. If everyone contributes as a batting unit, the team will succeed. We want the entire team to perform,” Jadeja explained during a press briefing in Melbourne.
Meanwhile, the Australian team has made some adjustments to their squad to address injuries and top-order concerns. Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the series due to injury, paving the way for Sean Abbott to feature in the playing eleven. Additionally, Sam Konstas has been brought into the squad, replacing Nathan McSweeney ahead of the fourth Test.
Also See: India tour of Australia Schedule | India vs Australia Tour Schedule | India Cricket Schedule 2025 | Australia Cricket Schedule
India Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wicket-keeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.
Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (C), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (VC), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (VC), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.