Sun Dec 01 12:51:49 UTC 2024: ## India Triumphs Over PM’s XI in Rain-Curtailed Practice Match

**Canberra, Australia:** India secured a convincing six-wicket victory over the Australian Prime Minister’s XI in a rain-affected practice match at Manuka Oval in Canberra. Day 1 was washed out, leading to a revised 46-overs-a-side contest on Day 2.

The PM’s XI, boosted by a century from Sam Konstas (100), posted a total of 240. However, strong cameos from Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal steered India to 257/5, securing a comfortable win. While the match lacked the intensity of a Test, it provided valuable practice for India’s batsmen, particularly those returning from injury or a recent lack of form. Rohit Sharma’s brief innings, for example, offered limited time at the crease before his dismissal.

The victory is a positive sign for India ahead of the second Test against Australia, a day-night match starting Friday at the Adelaide Oval. India currently leads the series 1-0 following their win in Perth. While the practice match result holds no bearing on the series outcome, the win will undoubtedly boost team morale and confidence. The performance of several players, particularly the returning Gill and Sharma, will be a key focus heading into the Adelaide Test. The availability and role of veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin remains unclear.

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