Sun Dec 01 05:46:25 UTC 2024: ## Rain Delays India’s Pink-Ball Warm-up Match Against PM XI

**Canberra, Australia –** Persistent rain in Canberra has significantly hampered India’s preparations for the second Test against Australia. Day one of their two-day practice match against the Prime Minister’s XI was completely washed out. Play on day two, originally scheduled for 50 overs a side, has also been affected by intermittent showers and was reduced to 46 overs per side.

Despite the weather setbacks, India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bowl first. The match, played with a pink ball under lights, is crucial for India’s acclimatization to the conditions ahead of the day-night Test in Adelaide starting December 6th.

Despite the shortened match, the Indian bowlers, including Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, managed to take early wickets. Sam Konstas, for the PM XI, provided a bright spot with a stylish half-century.

The match provides a valuable opportunity for India to test their bowling attack and assess their preparedness for the upcoming Test series, especially given their resounding 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth. The match is being broadcast on Star Sports and streamed on Hotstar.

The unpredictable weather has cast a shadow over the practice match, but the focus remains on the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India are currently leading 1-0. The second Test promises to be a crucial encounter as both teams look to solidify their positions in the series.

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