While cricket fans rejoice the arrival of a magnificent on-field clash between India and Australia from Wednesday, it promises to be a gruelling day at the office for players from both teams. Stationed in Brisbane for the big second Test, Australia presents the biggest challenge to the Indians.
What finally transpires at the Gabba is anyone’s guess; pre-game its evident the hosts are a relaxed lot with a point to prove. The pressure of expectations is gnawing at the Indians for whom this contest is crucial. That is because the visitors are already trailing 1-0 in the four-match series.
When India and Australia duel, it’s essentially a battle between the former’s batting prowess and he latter’s bowling fire-power. With the likes of MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Murali Vijay and Ajinkya Rahane from India pitted against prolific performers like Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Nathan Lyon and Peter Siddle – spectators are guaranteed a riveting game. Both teams come into the clash with reputations to boot, adding further weight to their respective ammunition.
Shrewd captain-cool of India, Dhoni, who is expected to come into the side after an injury lay-off, will strengthen his side for sure. He is up against the newly appointed captain of the Australian team – Steven Smith. With many sharp comments on India’s bowling and batting performances up in the air, how Dhoni tweaks these departments for the match would be interesting to see.
But as it appears, this young Indian team could turn it around any time if the players perform to their potentials. The Indian team’s batting strategy assumes special importance here. After disintegrating under Lyon’s disciplined spin, this batting line-up now needs to stand up against the Australian pace on a Gabba pitch, which generally supports fast bowlers.
And if reports in the Australian media are to be believed, the Gabba pitch will have enough juice on it to deliver “a sobering warning to India”. “Even thunderstorms and sticky conditions may have added extra sting to the traditionally lively wicket,” a report in the Australian media said.
Will India be terrorised? Not yet. In fact, the board is set, but how Dhoni and the management play the pawns remains an enigma. Such variables, and the ultimate clash of nerves on-field, shall ensure the game remains a true spectator’s sport!
