With the cricketing world eagerly awaiting the first semi-final clash between India and New Zealand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, the Men in Blue, led by Rohit Sharma, engaged in their final preparations under the stadium lights.
With not many batters and bowlers present for the optional session, the spotlight of the training session fell on Virat Kohli, the Indian batting maestro, who underwent two rigorous batting stints on the eve of the crucial encounter. Kohli faced local bowlers, including a left-arm pacer, a unique addition to the training setup aimed at preparing against New Zealand’s ace pacer Trent Boult. In addition, he took on a left-arm orthodox spinner, to simulate the challenges posed by Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra.
A moment of concern arose when the left-arm pacer clean bowled Kohli as he attempted to step out and slog over long on. This incident drew parallels to the 2019 World Cup semi-final, where Kohli fell victim to Boult’s LBW trap. Despite not timing the ball sweetly against the left-arm spinners, Kohli’s stellar World Cup performance cannot be overlooked. Having amassed 594 runs, the highest in the tournament with a remarkable average of 99, the cricketing fraternity anticipates Kohli and the Indian batters to deliver an impressive performance on match-day.
Moreover, with Kohli on the verge of achieving his landmark 50th ODI century, the excitement surrounding him is palpable. His second stint at the nets against throwdown specialists showcased a significant improvement, with Kohli effortlessly smashing the ball around.
In addition to Kohli’s net session, Ravindra Jadeja’s powerful six-hitting display left the media and spectators scattered around the boundary fence and in the stands, scrambling to protect themselves from the onslaught. Suryakumar Yadav exhibited fantastic touch with sweeps, scoops, and impeccable front foot drives, adding to the team’s optimism.
Meanwhile, the Indian captain Rohit attended the pre-match press conference and refrained from batting at the nets.
