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Team India has asked Cricket Australia for no more open training sessions after constant requests for selfies while batting in the nets in Adelaide
Adelaide crowd enjoying the net session
India’s training session on Tuesday was an open session which saw thousands of fans gathering at the Adelaide Oval to watch the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma bat in the nets. The Indian cricketers received a rousing reception from the crowd, but they were also subjected to constant requests for selfies while training in the nets, while some were mocked after missing the ball or getting out.
According to The Age, the touring party has asked Cricket Australia for no more open training sessions going forward. Fans are allowed to see the nets at most Australian venues ahead of a Test match. It was learned that the hosts had lengthy negotiations with the BCCI before Team India agreed to have an open session in Adelaide.
“India have expressed a preference for their remaining training sessions not to be open to the public to minimise potential noise or distractions,” a CA spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Age.
On Wednesday, KL Rahul reflected on the experience of an open training session while addressing the media. He said the team is used to open training sessions for white-ball games and the IPL, but Test match preparation tends to be a more private affair.
“Very different. Not used to it,” KL Rahul told reporters on Wednesday.
“We have practice with crowds, but it’s mostly T20 and ODIs back home; we’ve had crowds come in and watch our practice sessions. So, it felt a little different, but also it adds to your preparation for the Test match and gives us a bit of what we can expect on day one or all the days here in Adelaide, so it was good,” he added.
Unlike at home, the Indian players like anonymity on foreign tours and to explore the surroundings much more freely. However, the scenario seems to be changing everywhere. In fact, CA has been pushing to engage greater numbers of South Asian fans who bring a love of cricket to Australia.
- Location :
Adelaide, Australia
