Speaking to BCCI.TV, Nayar emphasized that the three-day match simulation sessions at the WACA in Perth provided invaluable insights for both batsmen and bowlers.
"Just before we came to Australia, Gauti bhai [head coach Gautam Gambhir], Rohit [Sharma], and I discussed what we wanted out of these three days," Nayar said. "The idea was to give the younger and experienced guys a lot of time in the center to adapt and understand conditions. We're playing Test cricket in Australia after four years, so adapting quickly is key."
Nayar explained the structure of the simulation sessions, which mimicked match scenarios. "Initially, we had it like a game where if you got out, you were done. Then, we gave players another chance, and they adapted much better the second time around. They got a lot more comfortable," he added.
The team's preparation focused on acclimatizing to Australian pitches and workloads. Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah bowled 18 overs in the sessions, with other bowlers putting in similar efforts. "Day two was about bowlers coming in and bowling spells, getting up the workloads, and building game sense," Nayar said.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel was equally optimistic, praising the bowlers' efforts. "Very happy with how the bowlers went. They summed up the conditions very well," he said. Morkel also highlighted Mohammad Siraj's leadership in the bowling attack.
"He's got a big heart and an aggressive mindset. He was the go-to man in tough situations last time, and we're excited to see him in a senior role this tour," Morkel told The Hindu. The Indian team's schedule at WACA included three days of net sessions followed by three days of match simulation.
Starting Tuesday, they will shift their training to the Optus Stadium, where the first Test will be played. With three training sessions left, Morkel is focused on finalizing game plans.
The series opener in Perth marks the beginning of a high-stakes five-match Test series. As the defending champions, India will look to replicate their past successes in Australia, aiming for a third consecutive series win on Australian soil.