Australia and India Face Off in Adelaide: A Classic in Times of Uncertainty
In a year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic, Australia and India prepare for a new confrontation at the Adelaide Oval, the same venue where their previous series began in 2018. The familiar sight of the scoreboard and the Moreton Bay trees at the north end of the field provide a sense of continuity, an essential element in test cricket. This encounter will be the first day/night Test for India away from home, promising a memorable experience for the fans. The series is a milestone, especially considering the challenges both teams faced to make it happen. The financial forces driving Australia and India to play at least 12 test series since 1999, underline the importance of this event. However, this year, the uncertainty about the realization of the series was constant, especially during the toughest months of the pandemic. The concern focused on the obstacles to organizing the series, although there was goodwill between Cricket Australia and the BCCI. CA leaders faced challenges with state associations, state governments, and broadcasting bodies. The arrival of the Indian team also presented challenges, with changes in entry plans and possible outbreaks of Covid-19 that threatened the series. The preparation of the playing field by curator Damian Hough, who has adapted to events such as concerts and soccer matches, reflects the flexibility needed in these times.Training sessions in the center of the field are a competitive advantage for Australia, according to captain Tim Paine. These sessions are crucial for adapting to the match conditions with the pink ball. Virat Kohli’s adjustment, who will only play one test match in the series, is crucial. After this match, Ajinkya Rahane will take over the captaincy for the remaining three games. Australians, with players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon, have been successful in dismissing Kohli early in previous series. Overcoming that phase is key, as Kohli has proven capable of causing damage.“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 a little more in the moment.”
Damian Hough
Tactical discussions and pre-series plans are a relief compared to Covid protocols and border restrictions. Paine, who values his test career, shows no signs of “bubble fatigue”.“Virat is certainly one of the best players, if not the best player in the world,” Paine said. “We have plans that have worked well against him in the past; hopefully they work early enough this week, but if not, we have a couple of different plans.”
Tim Paine
The clash between Australia and India promises to be a vibrant sporting event, especially at a time when many people around the world are still affected by the pandemic.“I don’t think this hub has been as strict as maybe the IPL or the one in England. I sleep really well at night; my kids are at home, which is good in a way, but I certainly miss them. But I sleep better here and feel fresher here than at home, so life in the hub might make me play longer, if anything”.
Tim Paine
