India's cricket team extends its dominance in the land down under as they defeat the Australian Prime Minister's XI in a warm-up match at Manuka Oval in Canberra. Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the Indian team showed strong batting form as they easily chased down the host's total of 240 runs. Openers K.L. Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal shined in the match, providing a glimpse of what's to come in the upcoming test matches against Australia.
Background:
The Indian cricket team is currently touring Australia for a four-match Test series, scheduled to begin on December 17. As part of their preparation, the tourists played a warm-up game against the Australian Prime Minister's XI at Manuka Oval in Canberra on December 2.
Match Summary:
Batting first, the PM XI posted a competitive total of 240 runs, thanks to a half-century from Henry Hunt and useful contributions from several other batsmen. India's bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav, shared the wickets.
In reply, India's openers got off to a solid start. K.L. Rahul (51) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (37) put on a century-plus partnership, laying the foundation for a comfortable chase. Skipper Rohit Sharma (26) and Shreyas Iyer (26*) also made valuable contributions.
India eventually chased down the target with four overs to spare, winning the match by seven wickets.
Standout Performances:
Significance:
This victory gives India a much-needed boost ahead of the Test series. It gives them confidence in their ability to handle Australian conditions and score runs against the home team's bowling attack.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. Who played for the PM XI?
The PM XI squad featured a mix of young and experienced players, including Matt Gilkes, Henry Hunt, Cameron Valente, Alex Ross, and Mitchell Swepson.
2. Why is the match called a "warm-up"?
Warm-up matches are played before major tournaments to allow teams to practice and fine-tune their tactics in preparation for the main event.
3. What are the chances of India winning the Test series?
India is the current World Test Championship leader and has recently performed well in Australia. They have a strong team with experienced players, but Australia will be tough to beat on their home turf.
4. When and where will the Test series be played?
The four-match Test series will be played in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane from December 17, 2022, to January 7, 2023.
5. What was the last time India played the PM XI?
India last played the PM XI in 2018, winning by 63 runs in a warm-up match ahead of the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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