Australia vs India: Cricket match in Adelaide, a respite after a chaotic year

Australia and India Clash in Adelaide in a Historic Duel

In a year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic, Australia and India prepare for an epic showdown at the Adelaide Oval, the same venue where their previous series began in 2018. The iconic scoreboard and the imposing Moreton Bay trees will witness this encounter, which will mark the first day/night Test for India away from home. This series, which celebrates two decades of encounters between these cricket powerhouses, is a milestone in itself. After a year full of uncertainty, both players and fans wondered if this clash would materialize. The difficulties were numerous, from the obstacles to finding a port of entry for the Indian team to the negotiations with state authorities. Despite these challenges, the series has managed to materialize. The preparation of the field, led by curator Damian Hough, has been key. Hough has had to adapt to the circumstances, including a Christmas spectacle instead of the usual Sheffield Shield matches.

“One thing we’ve learned with Covid is to live more in the present,” Hough commented. “We had to adapt and live in the moment.”

Damian Hough

Australia’s competitive advantage lies in its practice sessions in the center of the field, a factor that captain Tim Paine considers crucial. The team has had the opportunity to train at the Adelaide Oval, which gives them a significant advantage.

Image of the surface used at the SCG

Virat Kohli’s adaptation, who will only play one Test in the series, will be fundamental. With Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership in the following matches, this encounter takes on even greater importance. The Australian team, with figures like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon, will seek to neutralize Kohli, who has proven to be a formidable rival.

“Virat is certainly one of the best players, if not the best in the world,” Paine stated. “We have plans that have worked in the past, and we hope they work this week.”

Tim Paine

Paine, who considers his cricket career a privilege, does not feel fatigue from the bubble conditions. On the contrary, he enjoys a restful break and feels fresher than at home. This clash between Australia and India promises to be an unforgettable event, a beacon of hope in a year marked by the pandemic.