Sun Dec 01 06:12:31 UTC 2024: **India’s Rana Takes Two Wickets as PM XI Score 131/4 in Canberra Warm-up Match**
Canberra, Australia – Harshit Rana spearheaded India’s bowling attack in a rain-affected warm-up match against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra today. Rana claimed two crucial wickets, turning the momentum in India’s favour after a strong start by the PM XI batsmen.
Sam Konstas and Jack Clayton had initially dominated the Indian bowling attack, putting on a 109-run partnership for the third wicket. Clayton’s aggressive innings included two consecutive boundaries off Prasidh Krishna, but his innings ended when he was bowled by Rana for a back-of-a-length delivery that beat his defense.
Rana’s success continued in his next over, claiming Oliver Davies’ wicket via a straight delivery that rattled the stumps. Davies, seemingly expecting a short ball, failed to adjust his stance and was comprehensively beaten.
Konstas, however, remained a constant threat, reaching his third first-class fifty, which included a six off Rana. His impressive performance kept the PM XI’s scorecard ticking over, reaching 131/4 in 23 overs at the time of reporting. Konstas’ impressive 76 not out was a highlight in the otherwise fluctuating scorecard.
The match, originally scheduled for 50 overs, was reduced to 46 due to a rain interruption earlier in the day. The absence of Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was noticeable throughout, impacting India’s overall bowling strategy. The warm-up match provided valuable match practice for both teams ahead of upcoming series.
First Piper 