Sports

Author: anonymDate: 2024-11-21 12:12:33

Australia and India prepare for a Test cricket series; rain threatens Perth's playing field

Indian superstar Virat Kohli made a ton last time he played at Perth Stadium, but that was six years ago.

Australia and India are set for a thrilling Test series: Australia, trophy-less for a decade, faces an Indian team recovering from a devastating loss to New Zealand. India's 2020-21 series win, featuring a shocking 36 all-out, followed by victories in matches two and four, remains fresh in many minds.

Indeed, India has dominated the recent series, winning four of the last four including two in Australia. Yet, this encounter is unique—a five-Test series, and India's star players are underperforming. Captain Rohit Sharma misses the opener due to a family matter, while Virat Kohli's century count is meager since 2019. Australia too is in a period of change, with Nathan McSweeney's debut as the only player under 30 in the squad.

Both teams have formidable fast bowling attacks poised to exploit the Perth Stadium's lively pitch.

How will the pitch fare?

Australia has an undefeated Test record at Perth Stadium (four matches), however, unusual rain has preceded this match. The pitch's condition remains uncertain given Tuesday's downpour and the prospect of further showers.

"The weather won't ruin the pitch," stated WA head curator Isaac McDonald. "There'll be some wear, the grass will rise, leading to uneven bounce. The notorious WACA cracks won't be significantly impacted by the rain. The pitch will offer excellent pace and bounce; it's down to how the bowlers manage the ball." Australian batsman Travis Head anticipates a challenging pitch due to its speed.

"The pitch has presented difficulties," he noted. "As cracks appear, it quickens, posing a significant hurdle."

History lessons

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon eagerly anticipates playing on a pitch where he's excelled, claiming 27 wickets across four matches.

The venue evokes positive memories for Indian star Virat Kohli, who scored a magnificent 123 there in 2018—his sole appearance. Kohli's current form is a source of apprehension, with only one century in his last 18 innings. Another highlight is Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant's return to Australian cricket after a significant car accident sidelined him for nearly two years.

Pant was instrumental in the 2021 series triumph, scoring an unbeaten 89 in the Gabba's final innings, sealing Australia's first home Test defeat there since 1988. With India's regular openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, unavailable due to personal reasons and injury respectively, and a debutant for Australia, the batting performances will be a key factor in the opening game. Around 100,000 spectators are anticipated for the series' debut match.