India vs Prime Minister XI Warm up Match | India Seal Dominant Win | PMXI v IND

India triumphed in their two-day warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI at the Manuka Oval, Canberra, by six wickets in a rain-reduced 46-over game. The match provided valuable practice for the visitors ahead of their tour of Australia. Despite a brilliant century from Sam Konstas, the PM XI’s efforts fell short as India showcased their batting depth and composure in a clinical chase.

Sam Konstas Shines in PM XI’s Innings

Opting to bat first, the Prime Minister’s XI rode on a majestic 107 off 97 balls from opener Sam Konstas. Displaying superb technique and temperament, Konstas anchored the innings with 14 boundaries and a six. However, his departure in the 38th over proved to be a turning point as the rest of the batting lineup faltered.

Jack Clayton contributed a useful 40 off 52 balls, while Hanno Jacobs added a quickfire 61 off 60 balls lower down the order. However, the lack of partnerships hindered the PM XI, as India’s bowlers kept striking at regular intervals to bowl the hosts out for 240 in 43.2 overs.

Harshit Rana was the standout bowler for India, claiming 4/44 in his six overs. Akash Deep and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with two wickets each, while Washington Sundar and Prasidh Krishna also made valuable contributions.

India’s Chase: Jaiswal and Gill Lead the Way

India’s chase of 241 began on a solid note, with Yashasvi Jaiswal leading the charge. The young opener scored a brisk 45 off 59 balls, striking nine boundaries before falling to Charlie Anderson. His opening partner, KL Rahul, retired hurt after a composed 27 off 44 balls, paving the way for Shubman Gill to take charge.

Yashasvi Jaiswal took it up to Jack Nisbet in Canberra but the fiery NSW quick wasn't backing down! ???? #PMXIvIND pic.twitter.com/tX3O86wEv2

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 1, 2024

Gill anchored the innings with a fluent 50 off 62 deliveries, showcasing his trademark timing and elegance. He was well-supported by Nitish Reddy, who played a sparkling knock of 42 off 32 balls, laced with five boundaries and a six.

Washington Sundar played the finisher’s role to perfection, scoring an unbeaten 42 off 36 balls. He sealed the victory with a boundary in the 46th over, as India finished at 257/5, clinching the match with a 17-run lead.

Player of the Match: Sam Konstas

Despite ending on the losing side, Sam Konstas was adjudged Player of the Match for his magnificent century. Reflecting on the game, Konstas expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play against a world-class side and thanked the supporters for their turnout.

Captains React

India’s captain Rohit Sharma praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the value of match practice ahead of the main series. “It was fantastic. We got what we wanted as a group. The crowd’s support here in Australia is always overwhelming.”

Jack Edwards, the PM XI skipper, lauded Konstas’ efforts and reflected on the honor of leading the team. “It has been a great experience, and playing against a side like India is always enriching for our players.”

India will be pleased with their bowlers’ form, particularly Harshit Rana, who impressed with his ability to strike in crucial moments. The batting unit also looked solid, with almost all key players spending time at the crease. The game served as an ideal warm-up for the visitors as they prepare for a challenging tour Down Under.

The focus now shifts to India’s upcoming matches, where they aim to build on this momentum and fine-tune their plans for the series against Australia.