Team India Optional Practice Session: Just a day before the semi-final match of T20 World Cup 2026, even on the occasion of Holi, four players of Team India did not take leave and took part in the optional practice session at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. This session was organized a day before the match (4 March 2026), while the full practice session took place yesterday itself. This means that the team will now face only one full practice session in the semi-final against England to be held on March 5.
The 4 players who participated in this optional session were Tilak Verma, Varun Chakraborty, Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh. Among these, Varun Chakraborty attracted special attention when he did a special session of spot bowling on a single wicket for almost an hour. This session was part of his routine, in which he focused on his length, speed, control and variations. During the press conference, Team India's bowling coach Morne Morkel also praised Varun's hard work.
When asked about this in the press conference, Morkel said: This was a normal optional practice. He likes single wicket practice sessions. Obviously I can't reveal his strategy, but I keep telling him that given his skill and variations, he can take wickets on almost every ball. If any boundary is hit, it is a sign of his not being at his best execution. His focus is to maintain commitment and confidence on the next ball. Morkel stressed that it was important to end the session by making Varun feel good.
On the other hand, Tilak Verma, Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh practiced batting vigorously. All three players spent a lot of time in the nets and also played long shots. Sundar and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak were seen talking for a long time, during which head coach Gautam Gambhir was also present. At the same time, team assistant Ryan ten Deschkate and fielding coach T Dilip were also seen working with the players.
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