Australia and India clash in Adelaide: A duel of giants in uncertain times
In a year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic, Australia and India prepare for a new confrontation at the Adelaide Oval, the setting that hosted the start of their previous series in 2018. The emblematic scoreboard and the Moreton Bay trees provide a sense of continuity, a perfect backdrop for India’s first day/night Test away from home. This encounter between two of cricket’s most powerful nations promises to be memorable, especially considering the challenges they faced to make the series happen. The obstacles were numerous, from initial concerns about the venue to negotiations with local authorities. The uncertainty about the series’ realization was palpable, especially during the difficult months of March, April, and May, when the sports world came to a standstill. Despite the efforts of Cricket Australia (CA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), logistical problems and restrictions imposed by the pandemic threatened to thwart the plans. CA thanked the collaboration of the administrators and players from India, who did not raise significant objections about the tour. However, the challenges for CA’s interim CEO, Nick Hockley, and chairman Earl Eddings, focused on finding a way in for the charter plane carrying the visiting team. Initial plans to land in Perth were modified, going through Adelaide and Brisbane before finally settling on Sydney, Canberra and the New South Wales government. Even after the arrival of the Indians, a Covid outbreak in Adelaide could have disrupted the series. Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough prepared for various contingencies, including the possibility of starting the series with a day/night Test at the MCG.Training sessions in the center of the playing field are a competitive advantage for the Australians. Captain Tim Paine highlighted the importance of these sessions, especially to adapt to the conditions of the pink ball.“One thing we’ve learned with Covid is to be more in the present,” Hough said. “We like to plan months in advance. We still had plans but we had to live in the moment a little more.”
Damian Hough
Image: Virat Kohli and Tim Paine prepare for the duel.
Virat Kohli’s adaptation, who will only play one Test in the series, will be crucial. Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership in the remaining three matches adds an element of intrigue. Australians, with their fearsome bowling attack, will seek to neutralize Kohli. Captain Paine acknowledges Kohli’s ability to adapt and praises the diversity of his bowling team.In the midst of concerns about Covid protocols and border restrictions, Paine enjoys the series and appreciates his cricket career. The Australian captain dismisses “bubble fatigue” and feels revitalized in the safe environment of competition. The series between Australia and India promises to be an unforgettable sporting event.“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 certainly one of the best players, if not the best player in the world,” Paine said.
Tim Paine
