New Delhi: The form of openers of Australia and India could be key in deciding the outcome of the five-Test match series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, believes the retired David Warner.
Australia host India for five Tests from November 22, having lost the four series – two away and two at home. As both teams are in the race to qualify for the World Test Championship final, a lot is at stake in the series.
India travel to Australia after suffering a home 0-3 drubbing against New Zealand that was their first series loss in 12 year on home soil. They have won the last two times they have toured Australia.
India’s batters struggled against the Kiwi bowlers under home conditions and have to improve significantly if they have to entertain hopes of winning their third successive series Down Under.
Australia would hope they find an adequate replacement for Warner, having tried Steve Smith but not with much success.
Warner said it is imperative for Australia”s top-order batters to score consistently against India’s new-ball bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
‘India’s series defeat makes them underconfident’
“The Australian top order needs to make runs against Bumrah and Siraj who are their spearheads. I think if Australia can get through those two gentlemen, there could be some big runs put on the board,” the left hander told Fox Sports, as quoted by PTI.
“But we’re going to have to come out with our chest out against India. We have lost our last two series here against India (and) they have got a lot to play for.”
As India’s top-order batters including skipper Rohit Sharma and star No.4 Virat Kohli have failed to perform against expectations against New Zealand, they would under pressure to perform, said Warner.
“It (the series defeat) helps the Australian guys. They’re coming here after being beaten at home 3-0 for five Tests against the Australian boys, (who have) three world class quicks and a world class spin bowler, and I’d be nervous if I’m in they’re batting order. I would be nervous,” said Warner.
