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

Australia and India Clash in Adelaide: A Cricket Classic 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 same scenario where their previous series began in 2018. The familiar view of the scoreboard and the iconic Moreton Bay trees at the north end of the field provide a sense of continuity, an essential element in test cricket, and will serve 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 series, which marks the twentieth anniversary of their almost constant encounters, promises to be even more special. The mere realization of the event is a triumph, considering the challenges faced by both nations. From March to May, the sports world came to a standstill, raising doubts about the possibility of this series taking place. Despite the obstacles, both Cricket Australia and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) worked to make this encounter possible. Initially, landing the team in Perth was considered, but Adelaide was ultimately chosen, then Brisbane and, finally, Sydney, Canberra and the New South Wales government. The negotiation with the Queensland government was a challenge, but they managed to overcome the obstacles. Even after India’s arrival, there were concerns about a possible Covid outbreak in Adelaide. Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough has had to adapt to the changing circumstances, preparing a pitch with a Christmas parade instead of the Sheffield Shield matches as preparation.

“One thing we’ve learned with Covid is to live 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

The training sessions in the center of the field are shaping up as a competitive advantage for the Australians. Captain Tim Paine highlighted the importance of these practice sessions, especially to adapt to the conditions of the pink ball and the night lighting.

Image: Virat Kohli and Tim Paine

Kohli’s adjustment, who will only play one test match in the series, will be crucial. Australian captain Tim Paine acknowledged Kohli’s adaptability, but also trusted his team’s plans.

“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

Paine also expressed his appreciation for his test cricket career, and stated that life in the tournament “bubble”, far from being exhausting, is proving beneficial to him. This new chapter between Australia and India promises to be an unforgettable sporting event.