There are many head-to-head battles everyone's looking forward to in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series but the one that has been talked about a little less is between two top-ranked players in their respective categories - Marnus Labuschagne and Ravichandran Ashwin. While Marnus is the ranked number one batter in Tests, Ashwin is second on the list of all-rounders in this format. Both these star cricketers have faced each other once in the past - during the 2020/21 BGT Down Under, and now this time they are up and ready for round 2.

Marnus, who made his Test debut in England a few years back, said scoring against extreme swing and spin is what makes a batter stand out&nbsp;from the rest. Having scored runs in the difficult batting conditions in England, the right-hander now wants to achieve the same against the spin-heavy Indian bowling attack on their shores as well. In a recent chat with Cricbuzz, Marnus said he&nbsp;is looking forward to this challenge.&nbsp;

"The really good batters over generations have been very good at home. But the really great ones have done very well away. There's probably two major challenges for an Australian batter away from home, India and England," Labuschagne told Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-pat-cummins-hints-at-playing-debutant-todd-murphy-keeps-mum-on-final-xi-ahead-of-nagpur-test-559923">IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins hints at playing debutant Todd Murphy, keeps mum on final XI ahead of Nagpur Test</a>

Having toured Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the past year, Marnus has had the experience of facing some good spinners on dry pitches. Now ahead of his maiden away Test series in India, he knows what challenge awaits him - one that has troubled almost everyone - Ravichandran Ashwin.

Ashwin in the past has dismissed Marnus twice, but those were on the bouncy Australian pitches. On the tracks that will offer turn from day one, the Aussie batter knows what Ashwin brings to the table and how different he is from others.&nbsp;

"We knew Ramesh Mendis the offie, but the threat here will be R Ashwin. Not only does he have a great stock ball, he has great variations, whereas Mendis had a good stock ball, but he didn't probably have the changes like Ashwin. Nor did he have the use of the crease, the angle of the wrist, the seam angles and stuff like that. It probably comes more into your mind here because you know the bowlers," the ranked-number-one Test batter said.

"So you know Axar (Patel), (Ravindra) Jadeja and Ashwin, they are the three and maybe Kuldeep (Yadav) will be the add-on. You prepare for them. From a spin perspective, that's always on your mind. I think that's what makes you keep thinking because you're like ok how am I going to attack Ashwin. This is what faced from him before. How am I going to attack Jadeja, this is what he's bowled before," Labuschagne further added.

The first of the four Test begins in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmedabad will host the remaining ones.

There are many head-to-head battles everyone's looking forward to in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series but the one that has been talked about a little less is between two top-ranked players in their respective categories - Marnus Labuschagne and Ravichandran Ashwin.

There are many head-to-head battles everyone's looking forward to in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series but the one that has been talked about a little less is between two top-ranked players in their respective categories - Marnus Labuschagne and Ravichandran Ashwin. While Marnus is the ranked number one batter in Tests, Ashwin is second on the list of all-rounders in this format. Both these star cricketers have faced each other once in the past - during the 2020/21 BGT Down Under, and now this time they are up and ready for round 2. Marnus, who made his Test debut in England a few years back, said scoring against extreme swing and spin is what makes a batter stand out from the rest. Having scored runs in the difficult batting conditions in England, the right-hander now wants to achieve the same against the spin-heavy Indian bowling attack on their shores as well. In a recent chat with Cricbuzz, Marnus said he is looking forward to this challenge. "The really good batters over generations have been very good at home. But the really great ones have done very well away. There's probably two major challenges for an Australian batter away from home, India and England," Labuschagne told Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins hints at playing debutant Todd Murphy, keeps mum on final XI ahead of Nagpur Test Having toured Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the past year, Marnus has had the experience of facing some good spinners on dry pitches. Now ahead of his maiden away Test series in India, he knows what challenge awaits him - one that has troubled almost everyone - Ravichandran Ashwin. Ashwin in the past has dismissed Marnus twice, but those were on the bouncy Australian pitches. On the tracks that will offer turn from day one, the Aussie batter knows what Ashwin brings to the table and how different he is from others. "We knew Ramesh Mendis the offie, but the threat here will be R Ashwin. Not only does he have a great stock ball, he has great variations, whereas Mendis had a good stock ball, but he didn't probably have the changes like Ashwin. Nor did he have the use of the crease, the angle of the wrist, the seam angles and stuff like that. It probably comes more into your mind here because you know the bowlers," the ranked-number-one Test batter said. "So you know Axar (Patel), (Ravindra) Jadeja and Ashwin, they are the three and maybe Kuldeep (Yadav) will be the add-on. You prepare for them. From a spin perspective, that's always on your mind. I think that's what makes you keep thinking because you're like ok how am I going to attack Ashwin. This is what faced from him before. How am I going to attack Jadeja, this is what he's bowled before," Labuschagne further added. The first of the four Test begins in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmedabad will host the remaining ones.

Battle of Aces - Marnus Labuschagne ready for round 2 against Ravichandran Ashwin

Australian captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday, Friday 8th hinted that off-spinner Todd Murphy could be making his Test debut against India in Nagpur. Speaking from the team hotel on the eve of the first Border-Gavaskar Test, Cummins said several factors will come into play while deciding the best XI. Two days before the start of the marquee series, the pitch at the VCA stadium was watered but in selective patches - while the curators watered the middle of the surface and areas outside the right-handers' off stump at one end, they left it dry on good lengths outside the left-handers' off stump on the other ends. Pat said the team management hasn't talked about that in particular yet but feels it could still play a role in finalising the XI.&nbsp;

"I think it is a factor over here. With so much traffic from the right-handers bowling, at times there is a bit more out there for the left-handers. The Indian line-up is going to be packed full of right-handers, so I think it plays a small factor," Pat said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-will-be-tempted-to-play-shubman-gill-at-5-given-his-recent-records-says-ex-national-selector-559898">'Dravid will be tempted to play Shubman Gill at 5 given his recent records,' says ex-national selector</a>

Speaking highly of uncapped Todd Murphy, who by now was behind Ashton Agar and Mitchell Swepson in regards to playing as a second fiddle to Nathan Lyon, has emerged as a front-runner to play as the fourth bowler. Cummins feels with too much to offer for the off-spinners against the right-handers, keeping in mind India's expected XI too, both Murphy and Lyon could come in handy for the visitors.

"I think he'd be as prepared as he could be. He's been bowling beautifully in the nets over here. He's started really well for Victoria in first-class cricket. If he got the nod, he's got Nathan Lyon down the other end that he can work with; he's ready. Everyone in the squad here has had really good preparation. Whoever we pick is 100% ready to go," Cummins added.

While it might be too big a risk to leave out two bowlers (Agar and Swepson) who could spin it away from the right-handed batters, Cummins added saying,

"It's a factor. These conditions, they really spin, so just really good bowling is what you're after, being consistent time and time again. I don't think you need to go searching for anything more; the conditions will come to you," the fast bowler added.

Meanwhile, other than this, Australia will also have to make a choice between picking Peter Handscomb and Matt Renshaw for number 6th spot, both of who had played Tests in India before. In absence of all-rounder Cameron Green, Handscomb - a specialist of spin bowling, could be chosen.&nbsp;

Australian captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday, Friday 8th hinted that off-spinner Todd Murphy could be making his Test debut against India in Nagpur. Speaking from the team hotel on the eve of the first Border-Gavaskar Test, Cummins said several factors will come into play while deciding the best XI.

Australian captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday, Friday 8th hinted that off-spinner Todd Murphy could be making his Test debut against India in Nagpur. Speaking from the team hotel on the eve of the first Border-Gavaskar Test, Cummins said several factors will come into play while deciding the best XI. Two days before the start of the marquee series, the pitch at the VCA stadium was watered but in selective patches - while the curators watered the middle of the surface and areas outside the right-handers' off stump at one end, they left it dry on good lengths outside the left-handers' off stump on the other ends. Pat said the team management hasn't talked about that in particular yet but feels it could still play a role in finalising the XI. "I think it is a factor over here. With so much traffic from the right-handers bowling, at times there is a bit more out there for the left-handers. The Indian line-up is going to be packed full of right-handers, so I think it plays a small factor," Pat said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. ALSO READ: 'Dravid will be tempted to play Shubman Gill at 5 given his recent records,' says ex-national selector Speaking highly of uncapped Todd Murphy, who by now was behind Ashton Agar and Mitchell Swepson in regards to playing as a second fiddle to Nathan Lyon, has emerged as a front-runner to play as the fourth bowler. Cummins feels with too much to offer for the off-spinners against the right-handers, keeping in mind India's expected XI too, both Murphy and Lyon could come in handy for the visitors. "I think he'd be as prepared as he could be. He's been bowling beautifully in the nets over here. He's started really well for Victoria in first-class cricket. If he got the nod, he's got Nathan Lyon down the other end that he can work with; he's ready. Everyone in the squad here has had really good preparation. Whoever we pick is 100% ready to go," Cummins added. While it might be too big a risk to leave out two bowlers (Agar and Swepson) who could spin it away from the right-handed batters, Cummins added saying, "It's a factor. These conditions, they really spin, so just really good bowling is what you're after, being consistent time and time again. I don't think you need to go searching for anything more; the conditions will come to you," the fast bowler added. Meanwhile, other than this, Australia will also have to make a choice between picking Peter Handscomb and Matt Renshaw for number 6th spot, both of who had played Tests in India before. In absence of all-rounder Cameron Green, Handscomb - a specialist of spin bowling, could be chosen.

IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins hints at playing debutant Todd Murphy, keeps mum on final XI ahead of Nagpur Test

In absence of injured Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, India will be forced to make a few changes to their XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. As KL Rahul has also returned to the setup, he is likely to take the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma, whereas, KS Bharat is likely to start ahead of Ishan Kishan for&nbsp;the keeper-batter role at least in the first two Tests. So that leaves team management with just one slot to fill - the number 5th, for which two players are competing for - Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill.&nbsp;

While there is a temptation to start with Suryakumar given his different array of shots and his ability to put the opposition under pressure, a former national selector Devang Gandhi feels the head coach Rahul Dravid could be prompted to play the man-in-form Shubman Gill at number five instead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-sanjay-manjrekar-predicts-this-star-player-to-make-the-cut-in-xi-for-nagpur-test-559684">IND vs AUS: Sanjay Manjrekar predicts THIS star player to make the cut in XI for Nagpur Test</a>

Gandhi said&nbsp;as the young right-hander had scored a double hundred for India 'A' against the Windies playing in the middle-order, and had also scored a hundred in the previous series against Bangladesh too, he could just get the nod ahead of Suryakumar. While talking to Times of India (TOI), the ex-national selector&nbsp;said,

“Shubman had a double hundred in West Indies playing for India ‘A’ in the middle-order. And in the last Test series that he played (against Bangladesh), he got a century. The fact that Gill plays spin as good as anybody else in the Indian team should also work in his favour, at least in the first Test," Gandhi said.

On the other hand, India is also expected to play three spinners on a dry Nagpur track, and with Jadeja and Ashwin sure to start, it will be a toss-up between Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. While a few feel the Chinaman, Kuldeep deserves an extended run in this format considering his recent exploits across formats, Gandhi has a different view to it. He said India must go ahead with Axar Patel as he has&nbsp;proved himself on these pitches and can bat too, giving India an edge over their opposition.&nbsp;

“We should not forget that Axar, who is a finger spinner similar to Jadeja, has been phenomenal on dry Indian tracks. He can keep an end tight. Add to that his batting ability, which can be crucial on a pitch like this,” Gandhi added.

The first of the four-match Test series is about to begin on Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad to host remaining three Tests.

In absence of injured Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, India will be forced to make a few changes to their XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. As KL Rahul has also returned to the setup, he is likely to take the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma, whereas, KS Bharat is likely to start ahead of Ishan Kishan for the keeper-batter role at least in the first two Tests.

In absence of injured Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, India will be forced to make a few changes to their XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. As KL Rahul has also returned to the setup, he is likely to take the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma, whereas, KS Bharat is likely to start ahead of Ishan Kishan for the keeper-batter role at least in the first two Tests. So that leaves team management with just one slot to fill - the number 5th, for which two players are competing for - Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill. While there is a temptation to start with Suryakumar given his different array of shots and his ability to put the opposition under pressure, a former national selector Devang Gandhi feels the head coach Rahul Dravid could be prompted to play the man-in-form Shubman Gill at number five instead. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Sanjay Manjrekar predicts THIS star player to make the cut in XI for Nagpur Test Gandhi said as the young right-hander had scored a double hundred for India 'A' against the Windies playing in the middle-order, and had also scored a hundred in the previous series against Bangladesh too, he could just get the nod ahead of Suryakumar. While talking to Times of India (TOI), the ex-national selector said, “Shubman had a double hundred in West Indies playing for India ‘A’ in the middle-order. And in the last Test series that he played (against Bangladesh), he got a century. The fact that Gill plays spin as good as anybody else in the Indian team should also work in his favour, at least in the first Test," Gandhi said. On the other hand, India is also expected to play three spinners on a dry Nagpur track, and with Jadeja and Ashwin sure to start, it will be a toss-up between Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. While a few feel the Chinaman, Kuldeep deserves an extended run in this format considering his recent exploits across formats, Gandhi has a different view to it. He said India must go ahead with Axar Patel as he has proved himself on these pitches and can bat too, giving India an edge over their opposition. “We should not forget that Axar, who is a finger spinner similar to Jadeja, has been phenomenal on dry Indian tracks. He can keep an end tight. Add to that his batting ability, which can be crucial on a pitch like this,” Gandhi added. The first of the four-match Test series is about to begin on Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad to host remaining three Tests.

'Dravid will be tempted to play Shubman Gill at 5 given his recent records,' says ex-national selector

As both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are injured and out and will be missing from the XI, it will be a toss-up between Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav to fill those two spots in the XI against Australia for the first Test that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Mumbai’s Suryakumar Yadav alongside KS Bharat to make the cut in the XI. This means if both of SKY, as Surya’s fans call him, gets picked and KS is chosen as the keeper-batter, India might just have to drop either of Shubman Gill or KL Rahul for the opening slot.

"I think Surya will play the first Test with Bharat at number six. Surya has played 79 first-class games; this is a unique career that we are witnessing. He has been around for a long time,” said Manjrekar while speaking to Star Sports.

In absence of Rishabh Pant, who used to up the ante at will, Surya could walk in as his perfect replacement. Surya’s ability to play at a healthier strike-rate across formats makes him the favourite to replace injured Pant in the side for the first Test. Manjrekar also said since Surya has a pretty good sweep shot, he could put the opposition under pressure on given day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-pat-cummins-is-the-battle-everyones-waiting-for-says-former-pakistan-captain-559644">Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins is the battle everyone's waiting for, says former Pakistan captain</a>

"He will play because there are not many other options in the squad. Even in 50-over cricket, if he decides not to hit the ball in the air for a while, he will still score at a strike rate of 120. He is not just a six-hitter. He has a great sweep shot which is a great shot to have to put the opposition spinner under pressure,” the former India cricketer added.

Manjrekar added saying SKY doing Rishabh Pant makes more sense instead of anyone else – as that’s everyone’s cup of tea and that could eventually lead to a fall of wicket at a wrong time.

“Maybe one guy can come down the order and attack the spinners as Rishabh Pant has done for India. But, on a team basis, to come in with that ultra-aggressive tactic will be hazardous, because you are playing really outside your natural approach,” Sanjay further opined.

As we are just two sleeps away from the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, it will be interesting to see who the management picks to play in the middle order.

As both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are injured and out and will be missing from the XI, it will be a toss-up between Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav to fill those two spots in the XI against Australia for the first Test that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

As both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are injured and out and will be missing from the XI, it will be a toss-up between Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav to fill those two spots in the XI against Australia for the first Test that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Mumbai’s Suryakumar Yadav alongside KS Bharat to make the cut in the XI. This means if both of SKY, as Surya’s fans call him, gets picked and KS is chosen as the keeper-batter, India might just have to drop either of Shubman Gill or KL Rahul for the opening slot. "I think Surya will play the first Test with Bharat at number six. Surya has played 79 first-class games; this is a unique career that we are witnessing. He has been around for a long time,” said Manjrekar while speaking to Star Sports. In absence of Rishabh Pant, who used to up the ante at will, Surya could walk in as his perfect replacement. Surya’s ability to play at a healthier strike-rate across formats makes him the favourite to replace injured Pant in the side for the first Test. Manjrekar also said since Surya has a pretty good sweep shot, he could put the opposition under pressure on given day. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins is the battle everyone's waiting for, says former Pakistan captain "He will play because there are not many other options in the squad. Even in 50-over cricket, if he decides not to hit the ball in the air for a while, he will still score at a strike rate of 120. He is not just a six-hitter. He has a great sweep shot which is a great shot to have to put the opposition spinner under pressure,” the former India cricketer added. Manjrekar added saying SKY doing Rishabh Pant makes more sense instead of anyone else – as that’s everyone’s cup of tea and that could eventually lead to a fall of wicket at a wrong time. “Maybe one guy can come down the order and attack the spinners as Rishabh Pant has done for India. But, on a team basis, to come in with that ultra-aggressive tactic will be hazardous, because you are playing really outside your natural approach,” Sanjay further opined. As we are just two sleeps away from the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, it will be interesting to see who the management picks to play in the middle order.

IND vs AUS: Sanjay Manjrekar predicts THIS star player to make the cut in XI for Nagpur Test

In what comes as another blow to the already injury-marred Australian team, all-rounder Cameron Green is now more or less ruled out of the first Test against India, starting on February 9th in Nagpur. Green, who suffered a fractured finger during the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, was on the road to recovery; but as per the latest developments, he is running out of time to get fit for the Nagpur game. As per the former Australian captain Steve Smith, Green didn’t bat in nets at the VCA Stadium but did some fitness and light centre-wicket bowling.

"I don't think he (Green) is going to play. I don't think he's even faced fast bowlers yet. So I dare say he won't be playing but who knows. I'm not entirely sure. We'll wait and see. But it's unlikely, I think," Smith said as quoted by the ESPNcricinfo.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anyone-who-thinks-australia-are-starting-with-an-advantage-are-talking-through-their-hat-says-ian-chappell-559538">'Anyone who thinks Australia are starting with an advantage are talking through their hat,' says Ian Chappell</a>

Not only Green, Australia will also be missing the services of fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc during the first Test – both of who are ruled out due to injuries. Now in absence of three out-right seamers, Australia might rope in an extra batter in either Matthew Renshaw or Peter Handscomb and will also be prompted to play two more spinners.

Smith said after looking at the surface the management could be lured into playing more spinners given Green is also not around, but didn’t comment on the final XI, saying the selectors will have a look at the pitch themselves and will take the call accordingly.

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"I think if Green was fit it definitely be more of an option," Smith said. "Without him, maybe. I'm not entirely sure. I think we've got a strategy meeting this afternoon where we'll have a talk about what we think but ultimately it's down to the selectors to pick the team they think is best for the surface," he added.

Here’s Australia 18-man squad for India Tests –

Pat Cummins (captain), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

In what comes as another blow to the already injury-marred Australian team, all-rounder Cameron Green is now more or less ruled out of the first Test against India, starting on February 9th in Nagpur.

In what comes as another blow to the already injury-marred Australian team, all-rounder Cameron Green is now more or less ruled out of the first Test against India, starting on February 9th in Nagpur. Green, who suffered a fractured finger during the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, was on the road to recovery; but as per the latest developments, he is running out of time to get fit for the Nagpur game. As per the former Australian captain Steve Smith, Green didn’t bat in nets at the VCA Stadium but did some fitness and light centre-wicket bowling. "I don't think he (Green) is going to play. I don't think he's even faced fast bowlers yet. So I dare say he won't be playing but who knows. I'm not entirely sure. We'll wait and see. But it's unlikely, I think," Smith said as quoted by the ESPNcricinfo. ALSO READ: 'Anyone who thinks Australia are starting with an advantage are talking through their hat,' says Ian Chappell Not only Green, Australia will also be missing the services of fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc during the first Test – both of who are ruled out due to injuries. Now in absence of three out-right seamers, Australia might rope in an extra batter in either Matthew Renshaw or Peter Handscomb and will also be prompted to play two more spinners. Smith said after looking at the surface the management could be lured into playing more spinners given Green is also not around, but didn’t comment on the final XI, saying the selectors will have a look at the pitch themselves and will take the call accordingly. An early look at the Nagpur pitch 👀 #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/S3BIu7qti8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 7, 2023 × "I think if Green was fit it definitely be more of an option," Smith said. "Without him, maybe. I'm not entirely sure. I think we've got a strategy meeting this afternoon where we'll have a talk about what we think but ultimately it's down to the selectors to pick the team they think is best for the surface," he added. Here’s Australia 18-man squad for India Tests – Pat Cummins (captain), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Injured Cameron Green didn't bat in nets in Nagpur, remains unlikely to feature in XI for 1st Test

The verbal volleys have already begun ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts this Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur. Unlike the previous times, the talk about a particular player or players’ battle in general is less; instead it’s about the pitches that will be on offer during the series. While a few of the former Aussie stars including Ian Healy had said India will be using an unfair advantage by preparing rank-turners for the series, ex-captain and legend Ian Chappell has opined a contrasting view on the same.

Known to be putting out the right foot forward even if it means contradicting with his compatriot’s opinion, Ian Chappell has once again slammed those who are unnecessarily criticising the Indian pitches. Speaking to Star Sports from Sydney during a virtual presser on Monday, Chappell disagreed with Ian’s opinion while previewing the upcoming India vs Australia Test series.

Responding to Ian’s remarks of India using an ‘unfair’ advantage by offering dust bowls as pitches for the Test series, Chappell said those opinions are based on what Australia have done at home. Adding that other than the pitch curator no one should have a say on how and what the pitch should be. He also opined that anyone who thinks India will not start with an advantage and instead Australia will, is fooled.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-comes-up-with-a-solution-in-regards-to-change-in-asia-cup-venue-says-it-could-be-moved-to-559519">Ravi Ashwin comes up with a solution in regards to change in Asia Cup venue, says 'it could be moved to...'</a>

“A lot of that is based on what Australia have done at home. They are playing in India. Why anyone would think that India don’t start with an advantage, I don’t know. Anyone who thinks Australia are starting with an advantage are talking through their hat.” Chappell said.

“There is a lot of rubbish spoken about pitches. I believe no one other than the curator should have a say on what kind of wickets are produced. I don’t think it should be up to the players, manager, or coach. You should just produce a good pitch.”

When asked about what is a good pitch, then? Chappell said, “One on which a team wins after tea on the final day.”

Meanwhile, as the Australian team has reached Nagpur for the first Test, images of team players assessing the wicket are also posted on social media. Without Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Cameron Green, Australia will be fielding a relatively inexperienced pace bowling line-up in the first match. It will also be interesting to see who plays alongside Nathan Lyon, will it be all-rounder Ashton Agar or leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson.

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The verbal volleys have already begun ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts this Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur. Unlike the previous times, the talk about a particular player or players’ battle in general is less; instead it’s about the pitches that will be on offer during the series.

The verbal volleys have already begun ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts this Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur. Unlike the previous times, the talk about a particular player or players’ battle in general is less; instead it’s about the pitches that will be on offer during the series. While a few of the former Aussie stars including Ian Healy had said India will be using an unfair advantage by preparing rank-turners for the series, ex-captain and legend Ian Chappell has opined a contrasting view on the same. Known to be putting out the right foot forward even if it means contradicting with his compatriot’s opinion, Ian Chappell has once again slammed those who are unnecessarily criticising the Indian pitches. Speaking to Star Sports from Sydney during a virtual presser on Monday, Chappell disagreed with Ian’s opinion while previewing the upcoming India vs Australia Test series. Responding to Ian’s remarks of India using an ‘unfair’ advantage by offering dust bowls as pitches for the Test series, Chappell said those opinions are based on what Australia have done at home. Adding that other than the pitch curator no one should have a say on how and what the pitch should be. He also opined that anyone who thinks India will not start with an advantage and instead Australia will, is fooled. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin comes up with a solution in regards to change in Asia Cup venue, says 'it could be moved to...' “A lot of that is based on what Australia have done at home. They are playing in India. Why anyone would think that India don’t start with an advantage, I don’t know. Anyone who thinks Australia are starting with an advantage are talking through their hat.” Chappell said. “There is a lot of rubbish spoken about pitches. I believe no one other than the curator should have a say on what kind of wickets are produced. I don’t think it should be up to the players, manager, or coach. You should just produce a good pitch.” When asked about what is a good pitch, then? Chappell said, “One on which a team wins after tea on the final day.” Meanwhile, as the Australian team has reached Nagpur for the first Test, images of team players assessing the wicket are also posted on social media. Without Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Cameron Green, Australia will be fielding a relatively inexperienced pace bowling line-up in the first match. It will also be interesting to see who plays alongside Nathan Lyon, will it be all-rounder Ashton Agar or leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson. An early look at the Nagpur pitch 👀 #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/S3BIu7qti8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 7, 2023 ×

'Anyone who thinks Australia are starting with an advantage are talking through their hat,' says Ian Chappell

In what appears to be an improbable task at the moment, Mahela Jayawardene, the Sri Lankan legend backs Australia to beat India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India is one team that hasn’t been beaten at home in Tests in a long time, and considering their recent record&nbsp;against Australia – both at home and away, they are the outright favourites to claim the trophy this time too. Jayawardene, however, is of the opinion that this series will be super exciting and that the Pat Cummins-led team has it in them to upset India in India.

In the latest edition of the ICC Review, Mahela put forward his thoughts and said it’s the Aussie bowling line-up that will make the difference for them in the series. On the batting front, he added saying the Australian batters are confident of weathering the spin storm coming their way given their batter’s quality this time around.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-enjoy-my-cricketing-battles-with-australia-says-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-2023-border-gavaskar-series-558937">I enjoy my cricketing battles with Australia, says Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of 2023 Border-Gavaskar series</a>

"I think it's always going to be a great series. I think Indian conditions and how the Australian batsmen tackle that, they do have a really good bowling unit and how do the Indian batsmen tackle that all it depends on how each team starts the series and who's got that momentum. But it will be fascinating," the former Sri Lankan captain said in the latest edition of The ICC Review.

Predicting the winner of this high-octane series, Jayawardene said he expects the contest to be interesting, but somewhere thinks that Australia will walk out as winners.

"It's difficult to predict, but being a Sri Lankan, I'm hoping that Australia can go all the way. Probably a 2-1 win for Australia, but it's going to be a tough one," Jayawardene added.

While the Indian team is currently training at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur, the Aussies are occupied in the pre-series camp scheduled in Bengaluru before flying to Nagpur for the first Test. Earlier, the Aussie team management decided to not play the tour game ahead of the marquee series claiming that the wickets on offer during practice matches are different than the ones used during the actual Tests which is of no use for any touring side. As a result, they opted to stage a small two-day camp in Sydney where they practiced on used pitches.

While Nagpur is slated to host the first Test, Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad will host the remaining three Tests.

In what appears to be an improbable task at the moment, Mahela Jayawardene, the Sri Lankan legend backs Australia to beat India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

In what appears to be an improbable task at the moment, Mahela Jayawardene, the Sri Lankan legend backs Australia to beat India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India is one team that hasn’t been beaten at home in Tests in a long time, and considering their recent record against Australia – both at home and away, they are the outright favourites to claim the trophy this time too. Jayawardene, however, is of the opinion that this series will be super exciting and that the Pat Cummins-led team has it in them to upset India in India. In the latest edition of the ICC Review, Mahela put forward his thoughts and said it’s the Aussie bowling line-up that will make the difference for them in the series. On the batting front, he added saying the Australian batters are confident of weathering the spin storm coming their way given their batter’s quality this time around. ALSO READ: I enjoy my cricketing battles with Australia, says Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of 2023 Border-Gavaskar series "I think it's always going to be a great series. I think Indian conditions and how the Australian batsmen tackle that, they do have a really good bowling unit and how do the Indian batsmen tackle that all it depends on how each team starts the series and who's got that momentum. But it will be fascinating," the former Sri Lankan captain said in the latest edition of The ICC Review. Predicting the winner of this high-octane series, Jayawardene said he expects the contest to be interesting, but somewhere thinks that Australia will walk out as winners. "It's difficult to predict, but being a Sri Lankan, I'm hoping that Australia can go all the way. Probably a 2-1 win for Australia, but it's going to be a tough one," Jayawardene added. While the Indian team is currently training at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur, the Aussies are occupied in the pre-series camp scheduled in Bengaluru before flying to Nagpur for the first Test. Earlier, the Aussie team management decided to not play the tour game ahead of the marquee series claiming that the wickets on offer during practice matches are different than the ones used during the actual Tests which is of no use for any touring side. As a result, they opted to stage a small two-day camp in Sydney where they practiced on used pitches. While Nagpur is slated to host the first Test, Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad will host the remaining three Tests.

IND vs AUS: Mahela Jayawardene makes a bold prediction ahead of Border-Gavaskar series

India’s run in Tests at home is exceptional – let alone losing a Test match in a series, the Indian team hasn’t lost a Test series at home since losing to England 11 years back in 2012. Australia, considered as the most dominant unit in this game, has had their struggles against India in India. Having last won a Test series in this part of the world almost two decades back, the Oz are now aiming to break the ice in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, which is scheduled to begin in Nagpur on February 9th.

In a recent video uploaded by the Cricket Australia, the touring side was asked about their opinions on a Test series win in India – to which a few of the star players shared their thoughts. Former captain and arguably the best Test batter now, Steve Smith said winning a Test in India let alone a series is very difficult in itself. He added that a Test series win in India is clearly bigger than winning an away Ashes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usman-khawaja-remains-wary-of-spin-challenge-against-india-praises-star-india-spinner-ahead-of-series-opener-559167">Usman Khawaja remains wary of spin challenge against India, praises star India spinner ahead of series opener</a>

"It's a difficult place to win... a Test match let alone a Test series. So you know if we're able to topple that mountain that would be huge. I think if we can win India that would be bigger than an Ashes series," Steve Smith said in a video uploaded by cricket.com.au.

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What’s tougher: An India tour, or away Ashes series? 
 
The Aussie Test stars have their say <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/ljF0II6LBo">pic.twitter.com/ljF0II6LBo</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1622465218780577794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Mitchell Starc, on the other hand, said India is hardest place to travel in world cricket, and that, playing a series here would be very special for the group.

Meanwhile, Starc is currently nursing a finger injury he endured during the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, and as a result, will miss the first Test. Alongside him, seamer Josh Hazlewood and all-rounder Cameron Green will also be out of reckoning for the Nagpur game.

"Playing a series In India would be very special to our group. I think it's always been a bit of a crown jewel for Australian touring teams. It's one of if not the hardest place to play away with such foreign conditions, how strong the Indian team are at the moment as well. For our group particularly the way we sit at the minute and how we are building as a group, learning and adapting and bringing that experience. I think it will be extremely special," Mitchell Starc said.

Australia has won just two Test series in India, once in 1969 and then in 2004. Their last Test win came in Pune 2017 while they lost the series 1-2. During India’s next two visits Down Under in 2018 and 2020, they remained on the top and achieved the unimaginable i.e. winning the Test series on both occasions including winning at their fortress at Gabba in Brisbane the last time around.

India’s run in Tests at home is exceptional – let alone losing a Test match in a series, the Indian team hasn’t lost a Test series at home since losing to England 11 years back in 2012.

India’s run in Tests at home is exceptional – let alone losing a Test match in a series, the Indian team hasn’t lost a Test series at home since losing to England 11 years back in 2012. Australia, considered as the most dominant unit in this game, has had their struggles against India in India. Having last won a Test series in this part of the world almost two decades back, the Oz are now aiming to break the ice in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, which is scheduled to begin in Nagpur on February 9th. In a recent video uploaded by the Cricket Australia, the touring side was asked about their opinions on a Test series win in India – to which a few of the star players shared their thoughts. Former captain and arguably the best Test batter now, Steve Smith said winning a Test in India let alone a series is very difficult in itself. He added that a Test series win in India is clearly bigger than winning an away Ashes. ALSO READ: Usman Khawaja remains wary of spin challenge against India, praises star India spinner ahead of series opener "It's a difficult place to win... a Test match let alone a Test series. So you know if we're able to topple that mountain that would be huge. I think if we can win India that would be bigger than an Ashes series," Steve Smith said in a video uploaded by cricket.com.au. What’s tougher: An India tour, or away Ashes series? The Aussie Test stars have their say #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/ljF0II6LBo — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 6, 2023 × Mitchell Starc, on the other hand, said India is hardest place to travel in world cricket, and that, playing a series here would be very special for the group. Meanwhile, Starc is currently nursing a finger injury he endured during the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, and as a result, will miss the first Test. Alongside him, seamer Josh Hazlewood and all-rounder Cameron Green will also be out of reckoning for the Nagpur game. "Playing a series In India would be very special to our group. I think it's always been a bit of a crown jewel for Australian touring teams. It's one of if not the hardest place to play away with such foreign conditions, how strong the Indian team are at the moment as well. For our group particularly the way we sit at the minute and how we are building as a group, learning and adapting and bringing that experience. I think it will be extremely special," Mitchell Starc said. Australia has won just two Test series in India, once in 1969 and then in 2004. Their last Test win came in Pune 2017 while they lost the series 1-2. During India’s next two visits Down Under in 2018 and 2020, they remained on the top and achieved the unimaginable i.e. winning the Test series on both occasions including winning at their fortress at Gabba in Brisbane the last time around.

'India is the hardest place to travel; win in India is bigger than winning Ashes' - Oz cricketers ahead of BGT

The man in form for Australia, opener Usman Khawaja is aware of the challenge he is getting into. Despite having form on his side, the left-handed batter isn’t discounting the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up in their own conditions. Speaking with The Sydney Morning Herald, Khawaja showered praises on ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, calling him a gun. Having played against Ashwin in the past, Khawaja knows a bit or two about his tricks and how he’s going to use it. Ashwin had been a thorn in the flesh of the Aussies;&nbsp;in 18 Tests played in the Border-Gavaskar series throughout, Ashwin has picked up 89 wickets at an average of 31.48. Usman, who will be playing a Test in India for the first time, said Ashwin uses his crease very well that helps him pick wickets.

"Ashwin is a gun. He's very skillful, he's got a lot of tricky little variations, and he uses the crease quite well too. If you asked me the same question when I was younger, I probably wouldn't have been able to answer a lot of things because I didn't really learn about how to face what off-spinners are doing," Usman Khawaja was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-mahela-jayawardene-makes-a-bold-prediction-ahead-of-border-gavaskar-series-559146">IND vs AUS: Mahela Jayawardene makes a bold prediction ahead of Border-Gavaskar series</a>

Adding that the wickets in India are sure to turn from day one itself and knowing that Ashwin will come into play very soon in every game, Khawaja said he needs to figure on how to play him and score runs against him.

"But it's one of those really good challenges. The wicket's going to turn here at some point, whether day one, day three, or day four, and he's going to be in the game and bowl a lot of overs. So it's all about figuring out how I'm going to play against him, how I'm going to score runs against him, what he might do. If you bat a long time against him, he's going to change his game plans against you," Khawaja added.

Meanwhile, in their build-up to the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series, Australia decided not to play&nbsp;the tour game citing the pitches on offer during practice matches are quite different from the ones that used during the actual Tests, eventually leading to no useful training for the touring teams. Now, ahead of the first Test that begins in Nagpur on February 9th, the Aussie team is occupied in the pre-series camp near Bengaluru where they are practicing on dry surfaces.

The man in form for Australia, opener Usman Khawaja is aware of the challenge he is getting into. Despite having form on his side, the left-handed batter isn’t discounting the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up in their own conditions.

The man in form for Australia, opener Usman Khawaja is aware of the challenge he is getting into. Despite having form on his side, the left-handed batter isn’t discounting the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up in their own conditions. Speaking with The Sydney Morning Herald, Khawaja showered praises on ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, calling him a gun. Having played against Ashwin in the past, Khawaja knows a bit or two about his tricks and how he’s going to use it. Ashwin had been a thorn in the flesh of the Aussies; in 18 Tests played in the Border-Gavaskar series throughout, Ashwin has picked up 89 wickets at an average of 31.48. Usman, who will be playing a Test in India for the first time, said Ashwin uses his crease very well that helps him pick wickets. "Ashwin is a gun. He's very skillful, he's got a lot of tricky little variations, and he uses the crease quite well too. If you asked me the same question when I was younger, I probably wouldn't have been able to answer a lot of things because I didn't really learn about how to face what off-spinners are doing," Usman Khawaja was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Mahela Jayawardene makes a bold prediction ahead of Border-Gavaskar series Adding that the wickets in India are sure to turn from day one itself and knowing that Ashwin will come into play very soon in every game, Khawaja said he needs to figure on how to play him and score runs against him. "But it's one of those really good challenges. The wicket's going to turn here at some point, whether day one, day three, or day four, and he's going to be in the game and bowl a lot of overs. So it's all about figuring out how I'm going to play against him, how I'm going to score runs against him, what he might do. If you bat a long time against him, he's going to change his game plans against you," Khawaja added. Meanwhile, in their build-up to the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series, Australia decided not to play the tour game citing the pitches on offer during practice matches are quite different from the ones that used during the actual Tests, eventually leading to no useful training for the touring teams. Now, ahead of the first Test that begins in Nagpur on February 9th, the Aussie team is occupied in the pre-series camp near Bengaluru where they are practicing on dry surfaces.

Usman Khawaja remains wary of spin challenge against India, praises star India spinner ahead of series opener