After expecting to play the first game of cricket in the four match test series in Brisbane, all of the players will have to adjust to the new surroundings of Adelaide and the general eeriness that will linger throughout the test match. The rescheduled match has made the side selection much easier for Australia. If the first match did go ahead as planned at the Gabba, Michael Clarke was no chance to play. Now he’s passed a fitness test and is playing with some serious motivation. The chance to dedicate an innings to his “little brother” is a worrying proposition for the Indians who are without their own skipper, MS Dhoni, who is recovering from a broken thumb.
Virat Kohli, who signalled his arrival on test cricket’s World scene with a debut hundred in Australia the last time he was here, leads the team in Dhoni’s absence. India desperately need his run-scoring ability and his slightly combative attitude to set the tone.
The Last Time These Two Met
The two teams play in vastly differing conditions and struggle when taken away from their home comforts. This is shown in the series scores from the last times the teams met. In 2012/13 in India, India won the series 4-0. The same scoreline separated the sides in Australia in 2011/12.
The Teams
Australia 1 Chris Rogers, 2 David Warner, 3 Shane Watson, 4 Michael Clarke (capt), 5 Steven Smith, 6 Mitchell Marsh, 7 Brad Haddin (wk), 8 Mitchell Johnson, 9 Ryan Harris, 10 Peter Siddle, 11 Nathan Lyon.
India 1 M Vijay, 2 Shikhar Dhawan, 3 Cheteshwar Pujara, 4 Virat Kohli (capt), 5 Ajinkya Rahane, 6 Rohit Sharma, 7 Wriddiman Saha (wk), 8 Karn Sharma, 9 Varun Aaron, 10 Ishant Sharma, 11 Mohammad Shami.
The Key Players
Michael Clarke – The mental strength required for Clarke to play in the first test of the summer should not be underestimated. Following a role as a pillar of the country in the wake of Phillip Hughes’ passing, Clarke has taken to all his support roles with consulate professionalism and respect. He’ll be hoping for similar strength from his dodgy hamstring to help him get through the first cricket test of the series. He’s a key player to see if he has anything remaining in the physical and mental tank after his impressive effort just to be available. He’s at $4.50 to top score for his side at Unibet.
Ajinkya Rahane – Rahane is quickly becoming India’s go to cricketer. The diminutive yet correct right hander has been in rich vein of form of late and has already been touted by opposing players this summer. After their match against the Cricket Australia XI, bowler Josh Lalor commented that Rahane “looks probably the most settled of their players at the moment”. He’s paying $6 to top score in the first dig.
The Odds*
Australia – $1.63
India – $7.50
Draw – $3.20
*International Cricket odds courtesy of Unibet.
The Prediction
History tells us the Indians struggle in Australia and this series should be no different. Without captain MS Dhoni it is expected the tourists will struggle to take 20 wickets and concede large totals. That leaves too much to do for their batsmen, and considering the likes of Dravid, Laxman and Tendulker have not been able to save them in the past, we see this one going the way of the Australians.
Betfair:
Bet on Henrik Stenson to become the BMW PGA Championship Winner.
Paddypower:
Back Australia to take the Ashes home with them.
Betway:
Back Rafael Nadal to become the Mens French Open Winner.
Coral:
Back One For Arthur to win the Grand National.
Bet365:
Back Mexico to win the Confederations Cup.
