Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with Team India in Canberra on November 28, 2024, ahead of their two-day warm-up fixture against the Prime Minister’s XI. Set to take place at the Manuka Oval from November 30, this practice match is a critical component of India’s preparations for the upcoming pink-ball Test in Adelaide, which begins on December 6.
During the meeting, Albanese had brief discussions with Indian captain Rohit Sharma, as well as star players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. The Prime Minister expressed his admiration for the Indian squad, acknowledging the challenge they pose to the Australian team. “Big challenge ahead for the PM’s XI at Manuka Oval this week against an amazing Indian side,” Albanese said on social media, adding that he was backing Australia to triumph in the upcoming contest.
Also Read: Ajay Devgn Celebrates 27 Years of Ishq With a Heartfelt Tribute to Kajol
The warm-up fixture will provide India with a crucial opportunity to acclimatize to the pink-ball conditions, something that will be essential ahead of the day-night Test in Adelaide. This match comes after India’s victory in the inaugural Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Perth, which has boosted their confidence. The fixture is particularly important for Rohit Sharma, who missed the opening Test due to injury. This warm-up will allow him to get valuable game time before the high-stakes pink-ball encounter.
The Prime Minister’s XI, traditionally a team of promising young cricketers, will pose a strong challenge, but India’s squad, including the formidable combination of Kohli, Bumrah, and Sharma, is expected to bring their A-game. This warm-up is crucial for India, especially after their disappointing performance in the previous pink-ball Test during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar series, where they were bowled out for a historic low of 36 runs.
This match in Canberra is an exciting precursor to what promises to be a thrilling Test series between India and Australia.
Web Team C6N
