Nagpur, Jan 20 (.) Members of the Indian cricket team went on a jungle safari at the Pench Tiger Reserve ahead of their T20 match against New Zealand, which will begin in Nagpur on January 21, seeking a glimpse of the elusive tigers.
Taking a short break from training before the opening match of the series, India’s T20 captain, Suryakumar Yadav, along with four other members of the team, went on a jungle safari at the Pench Tiger Reserve on Monday, ahead of the opening match of the five-match series against New Zealand, forest officials said.
Besides Yadav, other players including wicketkeepers Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, batter Rinku Singh and spinner Ravi Bishnoi enjoyed the jungle safari during a private visit to the reserve located on the Maharashtra–Madhya Pradesh border, the forest officials said.
The safari was undertaken as a leisure activity to unwind before the high-profile encounter in Nagpur.
Indian team members travelled through the reserve in open jeeps under the supervision of forest officials.
Although they did not spot a tiger during the safari, they were able to see other wildlife, including leopards and enjoyed the natural surroundings. Several players interacted with fellow tourists, posed for photographs and later shared moments from the safari on social media.
Forest department officials ensured security and smooth arrangements during the visit.
The Indian team is scheduled to face New Zealand in the first T20 match at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur, with preparations resuming soon after the excursion.
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