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During the training before the much anticipated Boxing Day Test match between Australia and India at the MCG, a controversy started about the quality of the pitches provided for the Indian cricket team at training.
In videos and photos shared by Indian journalists in Australia, it was quite evident that there was much difference between the qualify of the pitches provided to the Indian and Australian teams.
The series is currently tied at 1-1 and the Boxing Day Test match is supposed to be an important test match keeping the series and a spot in the World Test Champions final. With all the hype around both teams, Cricket Australia's intention to not give the proper conditions for India to train has shaken up the cricketing world.
Practice pitches for Australia
From the above picture, it can be seen how the practice pitches provided for the Australian Cricket team look fresh. With a little tinge of grass and even colour throughout the 22 yards, it replicates the condition that the team might face during the Boxing Day Test match.
Moreover, having a practice pitch with even bounce and pace enables the batters to adjust and not get injured during the training.
Practice Pitches for India
Now, the above picture clearly suggests that the practice pitches provided for India are not fresh. The used pitches have indentations and rough patches throughout the 22 yards and it is not something that the Indian team would get in the middle during the test match. The pitches were slow and low and perhaps were made for Big Bash League's training sessions.
Yesterday, Indian captain Rohit Sharma and bowler Akash Deep were hit in their limbs and hands respectively. Post the training session, Akash Deep told the media, "The practice pitch is probably meant for white-ball cricket, the ball kept low at times."
Even from the outside, it is quite apparent that the used pitches will not have the true bounce and consistent pace which might lead to injuries during training sessions.
Along with that, the quality of net bowlers provided for the Indian team's net sessions was sub-par. The bowlers could not replicate what the Indian batters were expecting to prepare for the big test coming this week.
In the past, Cricket Australia have used many tactics to prevent teams from having great tours in Australia and inadequate facilities for training might get added to the list now.