Last time India came to Australia.. Now Neither Bhaji or Simo will feautre.

Whenever India and Australia meet a buzz around the cricketing community occurs. The fact that I am a neutral in this series doesn’t stop the interest I have for this upcoming Boxing Day clash at the legendary MCG; doesn’t get much better for a cricket nut.

The beauty of the Boxing Day Test is the build up and then the actual match which always pans out completely differently in comparison to the headlines a few days before the contest. So no one can quite predict what will actually happen as there is so much pressure on the players.

After the match is completed everyone will realise there are three more tests to go. India or Australia; who will stamp their authority?

For me Australia get the first advantage and that is because it’s their home series and we all know that the Australians at home are a tough beast to tame. The pitches which are true, fast and bouncy, are features that the Aussies are accustomed to and the Indians will struggle with the pitches. Although the Indian fan will say that India’s batting is world class and will be able to handle the tough conditions.

The big three from India; Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman will have to lead the way as they are experienced pros at this level. Looking at the recent series between the Black caps and Australia, the ball will move around so India’s batting will face a steep challenge. Batting is India’s strength and Australia will go hard at them especially with tall swing bowlers like Pattinson, and possibly Hilfenhaus, who will challenge India.

Looking at the bowling attacks of both sides, Australia has the upper hand; they have more pace and more form. Pattinson is bowling well, Siddle looks good and the offspinner Lyon has impressed everyone. India has a weaker bowling attack but some of their young guns like Yadav are very capable. Guys like Ishant Sharma, who was the best bowler last time around in Australia, could trouble the Aussie batsmen with his height and seam movement but he needs to find rhythm. Zaheer Khan is badly needed by India, he has shown in the past to be a class bowler early in the innings with swinging the new ball and then reverse swing with the old ball; if he stays fit he could be the difference.

Australia’s batting will fancy their chances against a moderate Indian bowling attack but they need confidence to do that and by looking at the last 12 to 18 months there is not much to be confident about for the Aussie batsmen. There is a major collapse every few innings it feels these days for the Aussies so India will know that and should try to take early wickets and put pressure on guys like Ponting and Hussey who are not in great touch. Also the inclusion of Ed Cowan as and hopefully a fit Shaun Marsh will give the line-up a new look compared to the last few months. However, this means the team isn’t really settled, which gives the Indian side an opportunity to pounce.

Guys to look out for…

Nathan Lyon – he has impressed so far but his greatest test to date will be against the skilful Indian batsmen starting on Boxing Day.

Ricky Ponting – many want him out of the side but don’t count Punter out. By the way he is due and I recall him getting consecutive double tons against……………………………………………… India!

Virat Kohli – tipped to be the next superstar, Kohli is a stylish player with all the shots, and he’s in some good form. This is his chance to make his mark on the big stage.

Virender Sehwag – the most destructive opener these days and if he gets going he could put India well and truly on the front foot.

My Prediction

I believe this Test series will be an exciting one because to me the bowlers will decide it. The pitches will assist the bowlers and the batsmen will be kept honest and based on the bowling I believe Australia have the upper hand. So with no real confidence out of four Tests, I think there will be one draw and a 2-1 win to Australia. That’s a safe bet but I really think India have a chance if they bowl well.

Keen to get tickets? They start as low as $20!! Don’t miss out! More info at: http://www.weekendnotes.com/australia-v-india-test-series/

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Waqas Tareen

Waqas has played at multiple representative levels of cricket, having been to the 2007 World Cup. Waqas knows what passion is about in cricket and just how much it means to people all over the world.