Giving all indications that there could be fireworks in Ranchi, the Indian cricketers indulged in a six-hitting competition towards the end of their practice session on Wednesday, a day before the third ODI against Australia.
Enjoying a 2-0 lead in the three-match series, the Indian batters might bat freely in Ranchi if the practice session was anything go by on Thursday. It was merely a fun exercise but keeping in mind that both the previous ODIs have been low-scoring ones, the hosts might want to break the shackles in MS Dhoni’s home ground.
MS Dhoni, Vijay Shankar, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant took turns to hit sixes as a member of India’s support staff used a side-arm to deliver the ball after finishing their net session. Yuzvendra Chahal too tried his luck once but unfortunately failed to make good enough connection.
While it was unclear as to who in the end, emerged as the winner of the competition, it did appear that Dhoni’s last six over the long on, which landed in stands, was the longest one.
Dhoni successfully managed to clear the ropes in all his three attempts and so did Rayudu. Jadeja failed in his first two attempts but hit a big one in his last try.
A full house is expected at Ranchi, where Dhoni in all probability will play his last international match. The MS Dhoni Pavilion will also be unveiled before the start of the match tomorrow.
The Indian team, meanwhile went to Dhoni’s farmhouse located at the Ring Road, some 10 kms away from the main city to attend a dinner party on Wednesday.