Board President's XI vs South Africans - Day 1 Called Off Without A Ball Being Played

The first day of the three-day practice match between Board President’s XI and South Africans had to call off due to the raingods playing a spoilsport at the Dr PVG Raju ACA Sports Complex in Vizianagaram. It is the one-off warm-up game ahead of the three-match Test series starting from October 2. 

After finishing the three-match T20I series in a draw, both India and South Africa would have liked to test their options ahead of the red-ball cricket. The Indian team management would have liked to have a look at Rohit Sharma, who is likely to open in the first Test. But due to extensive rain, no game was possible including the toss.

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Besides, all eyes will be on Umesh Yadav, who has replaced Jasprit Bumrah in the Test side. Bumrah sustained a lower back fracture and will be out of action for at least six weeks. It is likely that the youngster will return to action during the T20I series against West Indies. Umesh, who has failed to made it to the playing XI, will look to get his rhythm back and make a claim for his spot if any opportunity comes his way.

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On the other hand, South Africa would have also liked to get a hang of some red-ball cricket in subcontinent wickets ahead of the all-important series. Faf du Plessis will return to take over the reins as the leader in the Test side. Moreover, the team also has a few youngsters who are playing in India for the first time and the management would have liked to take a look at them.

Both the camps will want some actions in the last two days and prepare for the intense Test series which is also a part of the ICC World Test Championship.

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