WTC Final 2023: Australia Focuses on Slip Catching
The Australian team has shifted their attention to slip catching ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India, scheduled to commence on June 7 at The Oval. This comes after their slip fielders, particularly Steve Smith, failed to perform to the expected standards in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With India having just come off playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) white-ball cricket, the Australian team is confident that Team India will find it difficult to adjust to Test mode, thus creating more opportunities for slip catches.
Australia’s Slip Catchers in Practice
Australia’s regular slip catchers Steve Smith, David Warner, and Usman Khawaja were seen honing their slip catching skills during the team’s practice session on Monday. Josh Hazlewood, who has been ruled out of the WTC Final, was also present at the practice session, keeping a keen eye on the players.
Cummins’ Take on IPL Impact
Australian captain Pat Cummins discussed the potential impact of the IPL on the players prior to the Final. He stated that the players would need to adjust quickly to the five-day format, as the IPL had been quite different. He also added that the team had been training hard for the past few weeks in order to prepare for the WTC Final.
Conclusion
With the WTC Final fast approaching, the Australian team is doing all that they can to ensure that they are ready for the challenge. Slip catching has been a particular focus, with the team’s regular slip catchers practicing regularly. Additionally, the captain has highlighted the importance of the players adapting quickly to the Test format, after the IPL.