The Andhra cricket team has stepped up its pre-season program ahead of the Ranji Trophy with organised training camps in Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. With the domestic season approaching, players have been undergoing full-day drills designed to improve technical, physical, and match-oriented readiness.
Structured Training Sessions Continue
Practice schedules are divided into morning and evening sessions based on weather and pitch availability. Nets have been used extensively for long-format batting, extended bowling spells, and situational field placements. Coaches are concentrating on consistency, discipline, and adapting to varied pitch conditions.
In Vijayawada, sessions focus on tactical nets, strength conditioning, and problem-specific batting. Meanwhile, Visakhapatnam has been hosting match-simulation exercises and longer practice games to provide exposure.
Bowling Unit Under Close Monitoring
Special emphasis is placed on the pace attack as long spells will be crucial during the multi-day tournament. Bowlers are undergoing swing training, yorker accuracy, bouncer control, and reverse swing practice. Spinners are also getting extended time on dry tracks prepared by pitch staff to replicate match surfaces.
Support staff are monitoring workload to avoid fatigue or injury during the schedule.
Improved Batting and Temperament Building
Batsmen have been placed under longer net sessions to practice crease occupation, strike rotation, footwork, and shot selection. Situational drills include:
- Batting against fresh new-ball spells
- Middle-order pressure handling
- Chasing targets during practice games
During match simulations, players are tasked with staying at the crease, building partnerships, and avoiding loose dismissals.
Fielding Standards Receiving Importance
The team is focusing heavily on improving fielding intensity. Sessions include:
- Slip catching
- Direct-hit training
- Boundary catching drills
- Reaction-based fielding
Fitness trainers are monitoring speed, endurance, and agility levels.
Selectors Observing Young Talent
Young players from district and state tournaments have been included in the camp to compete for Ranji selection. Coaches are closely tracking consistency, temperament, and adaptability during pressure situations. More internal practice matches are expected over the next weeks.
Intermittent rains in Vijayawada briefly impacted ground sessions, but indoor nets, gym fitness, and tactical discussions continued. Visakhapatnam sessions have progressed smoothly without major delays.
Focus on Injury Prevention
Physiotherapists are running routine recovery protocols, including ice therapy, muscle conditioning, stretching circuits, and hydration planning. The goal is to ensure squad readiness without pre-season injuries.
The training program will continue with more practice matches and performance assessments. Selectors are expected to finalize the squad based on consistency and match readiness before the domestic season begins.
