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Kohli’s Power, Shami’s Recovery: India’s Intense Champions Trophy Practice Session
A Dubai Dress Rehearsal
The Indian cricket team’s practice session in Dubai offered a fascinating glimpse into their preparations for the crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match against New Zealand. From Virat Kohli’s masterclass to Mohammed Shami’s cautious comeback, the session was packed with drama and key takeaways.
Kohli’s Command at the Nets
Virat Kohli was the undisputed king of the nets. The relaxed demeanor he showed before stepping onto the pitch vanished as soon as he donned his gear. ‘King Kohli’ was back, and the intensity was palpable. He started with a focus on solid defense against the pace attack of Shami, Rana, and Singh, before unleashing a barrage of powerful pulls and drives. His tactical approach, clearly designed to counter New Zealand’s renowned seam attack, was evident. The crowd’s enthusiastic chants of “cheeku, cheeku, Kohli, Kohli” underscored the excitement generated by his performance. His recent century against Pakistan only added to the optimism surrounding his form.
Big Hits and High Stakes
The session wasn’t just about precision; it was about power. Shreyas Iyer’s thunderous sixes, clearing the ICC Academy building, sent the energy levels soaring. These explosive shots served as a potent reminder of the Indian batting lineup’s destructive potential. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting the players’ commitment and the high stakes of this crucial training session.
Pant’s Challenges and Sharma’s Hamstring
Rishabh Pant, known for his aggressive batting, appeared somewhat subdued due to illness. While his efforts to regain his rhythm were visible, his shots lacked the usual power and precision. A rising delivery from Hardik Pandya seemed to cause him some discomfort, suggesting he needs more time to find his best form. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill were absent; Rohit nursing a hamstring issue sustained in the Pakistan match, though he later downplayed the severity of the injury.
Shami’s Cautious Return
The session also focused on the much-anticipated return of Mohammed Shami. Recovering from a serious ankle injury, his cautious approach was apparent. His initial reluctance to fully engage in warm-ups and a hesitant back-foot landing raised concerns. The noticeably reduced jump in his run-up during the first half further fueled anxieties about his match fitness. While he did increase his pace later in the session, it remained unclear if this was a sign of improved strength or an attempt to mask any lingering discomfort. Shami’s full fitness is critical for India’s success, particularly given New Zealand’s semi-final qualification, adding a significant layer of complexity to his management.
Looking Ahead
India’s practice session underscored their dedication and strategic focus. Kohli’s dominance, Iyer’s power-hitting, Pant’s struggles, and Shami’s cautious return painted a dynamic picture of the team’s current state. Pant’s need for improved form and the careful management of Shami’s workload are crucial factors in India’s chances of success. The intense atmosphere and meticulous preparation clearly demonstrate the team’s unwavering commitment to winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
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