Xtra Time Web Desk: The Indian Cricket Team is likely to have a subdued New Year’s celebration following their disheartening defeat to the Proteas in the Boxing Day Test. The team has reached Cape Town from Johannesburg on Sunday, December 31. Since it was a travel day there was no training session. It is not confirmed if some players will visit the Water Front which is not far from the Team Hotel. The place will be buzzing with a lot of activities and live bands.
Another reason wht the Indian cricketers will have a low-key New Year’s Eve is because of the concerns about the high crime rates in South African cities, including robbery, theft, mugging, and pickpocketing. The security advisor of the Indian cricket team has already communicated to the team management to advise players to keep New Year festivities low-key and prioritize safety. A player from the Indian Cricket Team emphasized the need for general safety precautions, acknowledging the situation.
Considering the safety concerns, none of the players are expected to venture out into Cape Town for New Year celebrations. With the second Test against South Africa scheduled to start on January 3rd, the visitors will have a full-fledged trainings session at the Newlands stadium on Monday.
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In terms of squad changes, Rinku Singh has been released from the main squad to join the India A squad on a shadow tour. Avesh Khan has been brought in as a replacement for the injured Mohammed Shami, and Abhimanyu Eashwaran has joined as a backup for the opening spot, stepping in for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad. The team is now focused ahead of the second and final test pf the series. It goes to be seen if Rohit Sharma can replicate what MS Dhoni did in 2010-11 tour to the rainbow nation, drawing the test series 1-1.
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