Rohit Sharma explains ban on fans at team India's practice sessions

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has clarified the rationale behind the team management’s decision to ban fans from attending net practice sessions during the ongoing Test series against Australia. Following the chaotic public access to their training before the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, the Indian team opted to make their practice sessions private.

Speaking at a press conference after the second Test, Rohit explained that net sessions involve strategic conversations that require confidentiality. “Net sessions are very private. This was the first time I saw so many people during our training. The conversations during practice are crucial and shouldn’t be overheard,” he said.

The decision followed an incident where some players were subjected to insensitive comments from the crowd during an open practice session. Rohit emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and preserving the sanctity of team preparations. “If fans want to watch us, they can come during the Tests. There’s plenty of action for them over five days,” Rohit quipped.

Australia’s dominant 10-wicket victory in the Adelaide Test has left India grappling for a comeback. The series is now level at 1-1, with the visitors dropping to third place in the ICC World Test Championship standings. Australia, meanwhile, regained the top spot with a points percentage of 60.71.

India’s defeat has caused their points percentage to drop to 57.29, a significant dip from the 61.11 they held after their emphatic victory in Perth. With three matches left in the series, India must win all of them to secure a spot in their third consecutive WTC final, scheduled at Lord’s next year.

The remaining Tests in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney will now be critical for India. As the team regroups, the decision to keep practice sessions private underscores their focus on preparation amid high stakes.