PM XI vs India Live Streaming, Weather Update | Pink-Ball Warm-Up Match Underway in Canberra

Toss Update

The toss for the IND vs PM XI warm-up match, originally scheduled for 2:10 PM local time, has been delayed due to persistent drizzle, with a proposed 2:40 PM start also abandoned as rain continued. By 2:50 PM, the steady drizzle left the outfield damp and hopes for play dwindling. At 3:15 PM, officials announced another update at 4:00 PM, leaving players and fans increasingly frustrated as the weather showed no signs of improvement. As the rain continues to pour at Manuka Oval, the wait for live action grows longer. While the weather dampens immediate spirits, the significance of this warm-up match remains undiminished.

Manuka Oval Hosts Key Preparation Match for India

The Indian cricket team has embarked on a pivotal pink-ball warm-up game against the Prime Minister's XI at the iconic Manuka Oval in Canberra. This two-day fixture, spanning November 30 and December 1, 2024, is part of India's rigorous preparations for the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to be a day-night encounter starting December 6 in Adelaide.

The pink ball, known for its challenging dynamics under lights, is central to this practice match, as the Indian team looks to adapt to conditions that have historically troubled them on Australian soil.

Live Streaming and Telecast

• Television: Star Sports Network
• Online Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar app and website
• Cricket Australia Live App: Cricket Australia often streams matches involving the Prime Minister's XI on their official app

Weather Forecast: Thunderstorms Loom Large

Adverse weather conditions are a major concern, with a Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued for Canberra and its surrounding areas. Here’s the forecast:

Saturday, November 30:

• Conditions: Morning rain, cloudy, heavy rainfall at times
• Temperature: High of 19°C (67°F); Low of 17°C (63°F)
• Rainfall: Likely to disrupt play with heavy falls

Sunday, December 1:

• Conditions: Partly cloudy, warmer, possible brief showers
• Temperature: High of 25°C (78°F); Low of 11°C (53°F)

With potential interruptions, teams will be eager to make the most of available playing time.

Preparing for Pink-Ball Challenges

Pink-ball cricket introduces unique challenges for teams, especially in conditions like twilight and under floodlights where the ball’s movement becomes unpredictable. For India, a team with a mixed record in day-night Tests, this warm-up game is pivotal. The infamous 36 all-out collapse in the Adelaide Test of 2020-21 still looms as a cautionary tale.

The pink ball, with its pronounced seam and lacquer, often favors bowlers during the twilight and evening sessions. This match offers Indian batsmen a chance to adjust to these conditions while providing bowlers with an opportunity to fine-tune their lengths and strategies.

India's Squad Dynamics

Indian captain Rohit Sharma makes his much-anticipated return to the squad after missing the first Test in Perth. His leadership and experience with the bat are critical as India prepares for Adelaide. Sharma’s inclusion in this match is not just about his form; it’s a strategic move to reacquaint him with match conditions and the pink ball. Shubman Gill, recovering from a thumb injury, is another key player under the spotlight. His return is seen as a boost to India’s top-order stability. 

Prime Minister's XI: The Hosts’ Young Brigade

The Prime Minister's XI, led by Jack Edwards, presents a mix of youth and experience. Players like Matt Renshaw and Scott Boland bring valuable exposure, while the absence of stalwarts such as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne shifts the focus to emerging talents. This game is a chance for these players to impress selectors and prepare for future international opportunities.

A Historical Perspective

India’s journey with the pink ball has been a rollercoaster. While the team has experienced victories, such as against Bangladesh in Kolkata in 2019, the challenges posed by Australia’s conditions remain daunting. The 2020 Adelaide Test serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of pink-ball cricket in Australian conditions.

Learning from these experiences, India aims to iron out its flaws and approach the Adelaide Test with renewed confidence. This warm-up game is an opportunity to implement lessons from the past and adapt to the unique challenges posed by the pink ball.

Day 1 Highlights: Rain and Resilience

Despite the weather interruptions on the first day, the Indian team showed resilience in adapting to the overcast conditions. Batting under lights, players focused on strike rotation and defense, aiming to build partnerships. The bowlers, on the other hand, tested the PM XI batsmen with a disciplined line and length, leveraging the pink ball’s movement.

Day 2 Expectations: Maximizing Playtime

As the game progresses into its second and final day, both teams will aim to extract maximum value from the limited time available. India, in particular, will prioritize giving its key players more time in the middle, experimenting with field placements and bowling combinations to mimic real-game scenarios.

Setting the Stage for Adelaide

The two-day warm-up match in Canberra is a microcosm of India’s broader preparation strategy for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While weather disruptions may limit play, the experience gained from facing the pink ball under challenging conditions is invaluable.

As the Indian team prepares to face Australia in Adelaide, performances in this warm-up game will influence team selection, tactics, and overall morale. For fans and analysts alike, this match is a window into the team’s readiness and determination to tackle the formidable Australian side on their home turf.