xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: India’s preparations for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide faced a setback as the opening day of their two-day warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra was washed out due to persistent rain. With forecasts indicating potential rain on the second day as well, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul’s side might lose a crucial opportunity to acclimatize to the day/night conditions ahead of the high-stakes game.

Amid the weather woes, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s interactions with India’s batting maestro Virat Kohli offered a lighter moment. Albanese, visiting the Manuka Oval, was seen engaging in an extended conversation with Kohli. The two shared laughs and memories, continuing the rapport they established earlier this week.

Read More: IPL 2025: Where did it go wrong? Why did Prithvi Shaw get lost? Mumbai's former star reveals

What are they cooking pic.twitter.com/F2RhIqPCq9

— psyf (@PsyfeR888) November 30, 2024

The duo first crossed paths when the Indian team arrived in Canberra for their pink-ball Test preparations. During that meeting, Albanese fondly recalled Kohli’s sensational century in Perth, which had left the Australian side struggling. Their lighthearted banter from that interaction, including Albanese’s quip about the Perth knock and Kohli’s humorous response, became a viral sensation.

“The prime minister can't take his eyes off Kohli, there are other players as well but he just wants to talk to Kohli, that's the aura Kohli has.”

Not my words, that's what the commentators are saying ????pic.twitter.com/7XNoKpD2vH

— Yashvi (@BreatheKohli) November 30, 2024

On Saturday, the Australian PM and Kohli were again seen chatting, both during the formal greetings and after a group photo with the team. Albanese’s admiration for Kohli underscores the Indian cricketer’s global appeal and influence.

Read More: BGT 2024-25: 'Happy!', Find who is back at the nets ahead of Adelaide Test!

For India, Kohli’s form remains pivotal as the team targets a spot in the World Test Championship final. After a lean patch, Kohli signaled his return to form with a gritty century in Perth, reinforcing his role as the backbone of India’s batting lineup. Fans and teammates alike will hope for more such performances as the series progresses.

With the weather playing spoilsport in Canberra, Team India will look to make the most of whatever play is possible on the final day of the practice match. The countdown to the Adelaide pink-ball Test continues, with the team banking on experience and adaptability to overcome the challenging conditions.