Australia and India Face Off in Adelaide: A Duel Marked by the Pandemic
After a year affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, Australia and India prepare for a new confrontation at the Adelaide Oval, the same scenario where their previous series began in 2018. The presence of the scoreboard and the emblematic Moreton Bay trees provide a sense of continuity, an essential element in test cricket. This encounter will be even more special, as it will mark the first day/night Test for India away from home against Australia. The series, which has been a constant meeting point between two of the most powerful cricket nations for the last two decades, has a particular significance, especially after a year full of uncertainty. The realization of this series is an achievement in itself. The logistical challenges and health concerns have tested the organizers. Cricket Australia (CA) has thanked the collaboration of the administrators and players of India, which has facilitated the organization of the event. The obstacles for CA, led by Nick Hockley and Earl Eddings, included finding a point of entry for the chartered plane carrying the visiting team. Initial plans to land in Perth were modified, considering Adelaide and Brisbane before Sydney, Canberra, the New South Wales government, and the SCG Trust offered their support. Even after the arrival of the Indians, there was a possibility that a Covid outbreak in Adelaide would disrupt the series. Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough has faced significant challenges this year, but has prepared a test pitch with a focus on play, despite the circumstances.Training sessions in the center of the court provide a competitive advantage for Australian players, according to Tim Paine, the team captain. Adapting to the conditions, with artificial light and the pink ball, will be crucial. The absence of Virat Kohli in the practice match at the SCG adds an additional level of complexity, as does the fact that this will be Kohli’s only test match in the series. Ajinkya Rahane will assume the captaincy in the remaining three games. Australians, with players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon, have been successful in limiting Kohli in previous series. However, Paine acknowledges Kohli’s ability to adapt and cause damage.One thing we’ve learned with Covid is to live more in the present. We like to plan months in advance. We still had plans, but we had to live the moment a little more.
Damian Hough
Paine highlights the importance of having a variety of options in the attack, including Nathan Lyon and Greeny, to counter Kohli. Tactical preparation and game plans are a respite amidst concerns about Covid protocols and border restrictions. Paine, who values his cricket career, shows no signs of fatigue despite the circumstances. He claims that he enjoys the concentration in the “hub” and that the environment could even extend his time in the game. In a year marked by the pandemic, this clash between Australia and India promises to be an unforgettable sporting event.Virat is undoubtedly one of the best players, if not the best player in the world. Sometimes, when you play against players as good as Virat, they get away from you, that’s the game.
Tim Paine
