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Xtra Time Web Desk: Kohli and Pant falter in warm-up game; injury scare for KL Rahul ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy
In a behind-closed-doors warm-up match at WACA, Team India clashed with India A ahead of the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The three-day fixture, starting Friday, was organized by the BCCI to prepare the Indian batters for the pace challenge posed by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. However, the opening day brought mixed results for the senior side.

Kohli’s struggles continue

Virat Kohli, searching for a resurgence in form, showed glimpses of his trademark elegance with a sublime cover drive early in his innings. Yet, his stay at the crease was short-lived as Mukesh Kumar dismissed him for 15, caught at second slip. Demonstrating his determination, Kohli headed to the nets immediately after his dismissal to iron out his flaws.

Read More: BGT 2024-25: Injury scare over, Virat Kohli declared fit for Perth practice clash

Pant fails to capitalize

Rishabh Pant, India's standout performer in the recent 0-3 series loss to New Zealand, couldn’t replicate his heroics. He fell to Nitish Kumar Reddy for 19, struggling against short-pitched deliveries that exposed vulnerabilities in his technique.

Youngster Jaiswal falls early

Highly regarded as a future star, Yashasvi Jaiswal also had a disappointing outing, managing just 15 runs before being dismissed.

Read More: Ranji Trophy 2024-25: 10 wickets in an innings after 39 years! In which list has Anshul Kambhoj registered his name?

Injury scare for KL Rahul

Adding to India’s concerns, KL Rahul suffered an injury during the match and was seen receiving treatment from the physio. The extent of his injury remains unclear, raising questions about his availability for the first Test in Perth, starting November 22.

Preparation concerns

With limited practice matches scheduled, India will need to make the most of their net sessions to address the batting frailties exposed in the warm-up. The team will hope for better fortunes as they gear up for the grueling away season.