Australia and India Clash in Adelaide in an Epic Duel
After a year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic, Australia and India prepare for a showdown at the Adelaide Oval, the same venue where their previous series began in 2018. The familiar sight of the scoreboard and the Moreton Bay trees north of the field evoke the tradition of Test cricket, serving as a backdrop for the teams led by Tim Paine and Virat Kohli in the first day/night Test for India away from home. This encounter between two of the most powerful cricket nations promises to be memorable, especially after the challenges faced in recent months. The series is an achievement in itself, considering the difficulties that arose. From March to May, when the sports world came to a halt, uncertainty about the series’ realization was palpable. The organization faced obstacles, but the goodwill between Cricket Australia and the BCCI was key to overcoming the challenges. The efforts of Nick Hockley and Earl Eddings, leaders of Cricket Australia, were focused on securing the landing place for the Indian team. Options such as Perth, Brisbane, and finally Sydney were considered, with the support of the New South Wales government and the SCG Trust. Negotiations with the Queensland government were particularly complicated. Even after India’s arrival, a Covid outbreak in Adelaide threatened the series. Although the possibility of starting the tournament with a day/night Test at the MCG was considered, it was finally decided to maintain the original schedule. Damian Hough, curator of the Adelaide Oval, has been preparing the field with a focus on the present, adapting to the unique challenges of this year. Training sessions in the center of the field are seen as a competitive advantage for the Australian team, providing crucial preparation for the match with the pink ball. The Australian captain, Tim Paine, highlights the importance of these center-field training sessions to adapt to the conditions. Kohli’s adjustment will be crucial, especially considering this is his only Test of the series, before Ajinkya Rahane takes over the leadership in the following matches.
In a year marked by Covid protocols, border restrictions, and financial challenges, tactical discussions and plans for the match offer a respite. Paine, who cherishes his cricket career more than many, shows no signs of fatigue, enjoying the focus on the game. Paine mentions that life in the “bubble” has benefited him, improving his rest and freshness. With the pandemic affecting the whole world, this chapter between India and Australia promises to be unforgettable.“Everyone has big plans to get the best players out, don’t they? But that’s why they’re the best, they can adapt, they can change with what you’re doing, and Virat is undoubtedly one of the best players, if not the best player in the world,” Paine said.
Tim Paine
