Image: Wikipedia
The 2023 India v Australia Test series for the Border/Gavaskar Trophy begins today in Nagpur. There is every chance that this series will go a long way to deciding just who will play off in the Test cricket Championship match at Lords later in the year.
To read a background to the Border/Gavaskar Trophy click here.
In yesterday’s press, former Australian coach Justin Langer was quoted as saying that when he was appointed national coach the ultimate prize was to beat India in India. It hasn’t happened very often with the last time almost 20 years ago. To see the details of that series click here.
Both teams go into the First Test somewhat undermanned. India will be missing Bumrah, Pant and Iyer; Australia will be without Starc, Hazlewood and Green. Who plays as Australia’s second spinner? Or do they go in with three? It won’t surprise if India goes that way.
Not too many of the Aussies can boast much success on Indian wickets – with either bat or ball. India has been almost unbeatable at home for more than a decade or more and seem to have greater depth in their ranks.
There are already (oh so predictably) questions about the Nagpur pitch.
Let’s see how it all pans out over the four match series. My prediction? India 3-0. (But, to cover myself, let’s just say that I’m a fan of both ‘egg on my face’ and ‘humble pie’.)
Play!
To return to our Footy Almanac home page click HERE.
Our writers are independent contributors. The opinions expressed in their articles are their own. They are not the views, nor do they reflect the views, of Malarkey Publications.
Do you enjoy the Almanac concept?
And want to ensure it continues in its current form, and better? To help things keep ticking over please consider making your own contribution.
Become an Almanac (annual) member – CLICK HERE.
About Ian Hauser
A former teacher with a (very) modest sporting CV enjoying his retirement years. A Queenslander through and through, especially when it comes to cricket and rugby league. Enjoys travel, coffee and cake, reading, McWilliam's Cream Apera and a glass or three of wine. Footy Almanac's Thursday online editor who moonlights as a hobby editor.
India in India…
To beat India in India is to beat history. Their pitches. They hype of their fans.
To beat the heat.
To ignore the obvious, such as the pitches.
It can’t be that hard. Why is it that hard?
Why is it near impossible to win a series over there?
And again we falter.
And learn nil for history.
Just a return of the frustration. Their dominance. Our capitulation.
The big thing to come out of the first test was that Australia’s selectors need to firstly wear the Dunce’s cap and secondly stand in the naughty corner. Dropping Head was simply just plain stupid. That one sure worked a treat. After a woeful first day’s play – all out for 177, it was pounds to peanuts the game would be all over red rover within 3 days,which turned out to be correct. For Australia, the only player to score a pass mark was new chum, Todd Murphy, with 7 wickets, however Manus, Smith and Carey did have some good moments. What a great tail Australia had, 7 runs between them in the first innings and 11 in the second. Unless changes are made, the odds on a 4-0 series win to India is very likely.
Flat track bullies. Legends in their own lunchtimes. Hearts like peas. A team full of Jack Darling’s.
Flat track bullies. Doctored pitches. Selection confusion; Kuhnemann, Starc, Hazlewood.
Why does this sound like so many sub continent tours in my lifetime?
Hopefully, it can only improve from here, though the spectre of another 4-0 defeat is on the radar. How well must have Graham McKenzie bowled well on the 1969-70 tour, though I’ve never seen any footage of the series.
Goodness knows who will wear the Baggy Green in the Second Test though some players have to make the most of this tour as don’t deliver here forget the Ashes.
Glen!