After India’s defeat to New Zealand in Pune, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul left for Mumbai to spend time with their families. The team will reassemble for mandatory practice sessions before the third Test in Mumbai, aiming to defend their home ground and restore momentum.
India’s streak of 12 years unbeaten at home came to an abrupt end as New Zealand seized a resounding 113-run victoryÂ
In the second Test match at Pune, marking India’s first home Test series loss since 2013.
Adding to the shock, it was the first time since 1983 that India lost three home Tests in a row, all under captain Rohit Sharma’s leadership. New Zealand had previously claimed the opening match in Bengaluru, marking India’s first home defeat to the Kiwis in 36 years.
Hours after the Pune defeat, Indian captain Rohit Sharma, along with star batter Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, traveled to Mumbai to be with their families before the third and final Test match. The rest of the team, along with the support staff, will arrive in Mumbai on Sunday, with players given a brief two-day break to reset mentally and physically.
Compulsory Practice Enforced for Series Finale
In a strategic shift following the series loss, team management has made it compulsory for all players to attend practice sessions on October 30 and 31.
Traditionally, senior players and bowlers might opt for lighter drills in back-to-back matches to manage workload, but with World Test Championship qualification in the balance, the management has enforced full training sessions.
This move emphasises India’s determination to regain control on home turf as they prepare for the Wankhede showdown.
India’s Focus on Redemption Ahead of Australia Tour
As India gears up to host the third Test in Mumbai, the stakes are high. This match will serve not only as a series finale but also as a momentum-builder before India’s crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia starting November 10.
With a fresh focus on unity and preparation, the team will aim to end the New Zealand series on a strong note to approach the Australian tour with renewed confidence.
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