INDIA- AUSTRALIA SERIES-2017
- In LifeStyle & Sports
- 12:56 PM, Feb 23, 2017
- Rakesh Giri Goswami
The Australians or the Kangaroos have arrived on Indian soil for a tough bout of cricket, as well as of wits. This is an attempt to analyze this series in an objective manner. First of all let us present some stats, which we cannot ignore. It all started in 1947-48 when Indian team first visited Australia continent. And the process is continuous in 2017. Both countries have contested 12 series, out of which India won 6, Australia 5,1 was drawn. Last time Kangaroos won against us was in 2004-05, after this they played 3 more series here but lost. Of course they won in 2015 on their home turf. In terms of test matches the break up is total 90 tests, India won 24,Australia won 40, 25 were drawn, 1 was tie match. There have been only 2 tie tests in cricket history, Australia was part of both, against West Indies in 1961, against India in 1987. Both sides have had some outstanding performances by players.Bradman, Harvey, Chappell/ Waugh brothers,Ponting, Mackenzie,Lindwall, Benaud, Mallet, Miller from their side,and Hazare, Mankad, Prasanna, Chandra Shekhar Laxman, Tendulkar, Dravid, Sehwag, Gavaskar, Kapil Dev from our side.
The schedule of season is well known to all sports lovers, the point of happiness is the fact that gradually small ODI centers like Ranchi and Dharamshala have found importance in cricket itinerary. As far as team composition is concerned, India has not made any changes as no one wants to disturb a winning combination, which is full of confidence, and with a captain who has decided to indulge in record making spree since last 2 years. The appear to have become unbeatable in home series. One very important observation, Indian team for first time is having enough bench strength in all departments of game, there is competition for every spot. Place of any player is not sure, one has to earn it. Even triple century hitter Karun Nayar had to sit out.
Team composition of Australia is slightly strange, as they are having 5 specialist batsmen,5specialist bowlers, 5 all rounders and only 1 wicket keeper. Of course looking to Indian pitches they have given due importance to spin bowling. Among specialist bowlers they have 3 pace men, all might find place in final eleven, with 2 spinners. They are relying too much on strength of all-rounders, all of them are newcomers at international level, with not enough experience. One thing can be conceded that Kangaroos are better players of spin as compared to Englishmen who almost surrendered against Ashwin and Jadeja. Australians will also like to use their IPL experience in countering Indian bowling attack.
The common point between 2 teams is that both have had very hectic season. India already played tests,3ODI,3T20 matches, while Australia have played 3 tests, 8ODI,3T20 matches. This perhaps has been the most busy schedule for India team in last 5 decades. Hope this busy schedule of both teams has not diminished their enthusiasm. Cricket is game of uncertainties but one thing is sure. India would like to continue their record breaking winning streak, Australia would love to keep intact their reputation of determined fighters.
The Aussies are also known for their on field sledging to heckle and harass opponents, but incidents of last couple of years have demonstrated clearly that Indian team has not only given them effective answers but at times, have also turned the tables.
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