Dubai, March 2: Australia had an intense three-hour practice session at the ICC Academy here on Sunday afternoon with the focus firmly on their play against spin.
While senior pros like Steve Smith and Travis Head had a light hit, the youngsters went full throttle.The Australian team opted for seven ICC academy based net bowlers — all spinners including slow left-arm orthodox Harshit Seth, a 20 year old UAE player, besides two left arm Chinaman bowlers, as many off-spinners and a leg-spinner.Australia finished second in Group B behind South Africa and both teams are camping in the UAE, waiting to know who their opponents will be in the semifinals. Australia will face table toppers from Group A, either India or New Zealand, in their last four clash.The first semifinal involving India will be played in Dubai on Tuesday and the second one in Lahore on Wednesday.After the training on Sunday, spinner Harshit Seth said the Aussie batters told the net bowlers to bowl a certain length that would invite them to drive and flick. With the knockout stage looming, Australia’s rigorous training session underlined their determination to sharpen their skills against spin, a key factor in subcontinent conditions. As they gear up to face a formidable opponent in the semifinals, the team’s focus on adaptability and precision could play a crucial role in their title chase. Australia’s meticulous preparation reflects their intent to leave no stone unturned in the quest for a record-extending ICC title. With spin likely to play a decisive role in the upcoming clash, the team’s emphasis on mastering the slower bowlers could prove pivotal. (PTI)
