Australia vs India: A Cricket Classic in Times of Pandemic

Australia and India Clash in Adelaide: A Duel Marked by Uncertainty

In a year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic, Australia and India prepare for a new confrontation at the Adelaide Oval, the scene of their previous encounter in 2018. The presence of the iconic scoreboard and the Moreton Bay trees provide a sense of continuity in cricket, a special backdrop for the teams led by Tim Paine and Virat Kohli. This will be the first Test day/night for India away from home, an event that promises to be memorable. The series itself is an achievement, considering the difficulties that the sports world faced in the first months of 2020. Since 1999, Australia and India have contested 12 Test series, a number similar to the Ashes series Australia has played against England in the same period. Uncertainty about the series taking place was palpable, especially in the months of March, April, and May, when sport came to a near standstill. The organization faced significant challenges, including finding an entry point for the Indian team’s charter plane and negotiations with the Queensland government. Despite the obstacles, the series is going ahead, a testament to the determination of both sides. Even after the arrival of the Indians, a Covid outbreak in Adelaide put the series at risk. Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough has had to adapt to the circumstances, preparing a playing field with a focus on the present.

“One thing we’ve learned with Covid is to live more in the present,” Hough said. “We have plans, but we must live in the moment a little more.”

Damian Hough, Curator of the Adelaide Oval

Practice sessions in the center of the playing field provide a crucial competitive advantage for the Australians. Australian captain Tim Paine highlighted the importance of these sessions and adapting to the game conditions with the pink ball under the lights. Kohli’s adaptation will be key, given that this is his only Test of the series. Ajinkya Rahane will take over the leadership in the remaining three matches. The Australians, with their potent attack, have succeeded in stopping Kohli in previous series. Paine recognizes Kohli’s skill and the need to have multiple strategies to counter him. Paine, who values his cricket career, expressed his enthusiasm for the series. “Bubble fatigue” is not a problem for him, and the experience of being focused on the game without distractions has benefited him. The clash between Australia and India promises to be a vibrant sporting event, especially at a time when many people in the world are still dealing with the restrictions imposed by the pandemic.