Former England captain Michael Vaughan has expressed surprise and concern over India’s decision to skip warm-up matches ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth. Unlike previous tours where India played warm-up games to acclimate to Australian conditions, this time the team opted for match simulations at the WACA, a move that Vaughan believes might impact their preparation for the high-stakes series.
India’s Changed Approach
In their last two successful tours of Australia in 2018/19 and 2020/21, India played warm-up matches against Australia A before the first Test. This time, the team initially planned to hold an intra-squad match involving the India A side but later canceled it in favor of match simulations. The decision to forego traditional warm-ups has raised eyebrows, especially given the challenges of adapting to Australian pitches.
Vaughan’s Concerns
Speaking to Fox Cricket, Vaughan questioned India’s decision to rely solely on intra-squad games. He argued that such matches fail to provide the competitive edge needed to prepare for a tough series.
“I can’t understand why a team like India wouldn’t want to play at least one proper game before a series against Australia in their conditions. Playing an intra-squad match doesn’t bring the same level of competition or consequence,” Vaughan said.
He added that a warm-up game at the WACA would have been an ideal way for Indian batters to get accustomed to the bounce and pace, which are key characteristics of Australian pitches.
Struggling Batters Could Miss Crucial Preparation
India’s batting unit has been under scrutiny, with senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma struggling in recent matches and younger players failing to impress consistently. Vaughan believes the lack of a proper warm-up match is a missed opportunity for these players to adjust to Australian conditions and build confidence.
“I’m surprised this Indian side didn’t take the chance to play at least one match at the WACA, especially since it offers conditions similar to the Optus Stadium. It could have helped them get used to the bounce and pace,” he stated.
A Shift in Mindset
Vaughan also reflected on how modern cricketers approach preparation differently compared to players of his era. While players of the past preferred more games to adapt to foreign conditions, today’s cricketers believe their packed schedules provide enough experience to adjust quickly.
“These players today play year-round and feel they can adapt on the go. It’s a different mindset from our time when we needed more matches to prepare,” Vaughan observed.
Will India’s Strategy Work?
Despite his criticism, Vaughan admitted that only time will tell if India’s unconventional approach will pay off. He remains curious to see how both teams settle into the longer format when the series begins.
“It’ll be interesting to see how both sides adapt on the first day. I just hope to see teams perform well and make a strong statement,” Vaughan concluded.
The upcoming series will test whether India’s decision to forgo warm-up matches was a bold masterstroke or a costly misstep.
