Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has strongly criticized India’s preparation for their upcoming five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. Ali expressed his concerns over India’s secretive training sessions in Perth ahead of the first Test, suggesting that the team hasn’t adequately prepared for the challenges ahead.

Speaking about India’s approach, Basit Ali highlighted the lack of visible match practice, noting that the team’s confidence seemed low, particularly after their 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand. Ali remarked that practicing in secrecy was not the solution to overcoming Australia’s formidable bowling attack.

"The confidence level of the Indian team is very low. Chup ke to practice kar rahe hai (They are practicing secretly). Play as per your normal routine. You should play a match. They are not playing the match because they don't want an injury. However, there was an injury even during the practice,” Basit Ali commented.

He further criticized India’s approach to the series :

"The preparation that should have been done before the series is missing. It doesn't matter if you reached Australia 12 days before the series or even 12 months before the series. This is not the way. You should play matches in Australia to be able to tackle their bowling."

Basit Ali also warned that the Indian team could face difficulties against Australia, especially given their recent form and the pressure of playing in Australia.

"Australia in Australia are a very dangerous side, especially according to this Indian team because they have lost 3-0 to New Zealand. The confidence level of the players and the team management is very low," he added