India-Australia battle is always a treat for Cricket fans. More importantly the competitiveness on both sides makes this battle even more interesting. After thrashing India at Pune by 333 runs, Australian players will be booming in confidence but If we look at India’s recent stats they shouldn’t be so happy as India is very much capable of making a good strong comeback.
They are all set to take square off once again at Bengaluru. India-Australia series is considered as one of fiercest rivalries in Cricket, with players as well as fans.
So here we tell you top 5 players battles you can expect in the second Test starting Saturday, 4th March.
Virat Kohli vs Mitchell Starc-
Undoubtedly, right now in the word of cricket, this is the most interesting battle. One is considered as World’s best Batsman and the other is World’s best bowler. Even on an average day, they look most threatening to opposition.
But if we look at stats, Mitchell Starc dismissed Virat Kohli only twice in the 9 innings they have faced each other. Virat Kohli failed in the first Test at Pune, and as a captain, his responsibilities are bigger.
Umesh Yadav vs David Warner:
This Indian pace bowler has created some difficulties for Australian Southpaw David Warner in the past. Umesh Yadav is in some good rhythm during this home season and most of the time, he has been India’s go to bowler in crunch situation. In Indian conditions, David Warner hasn’t been much impressive, He is averaging just half of his career’s average. His career average is 48.70 and in India his numbers pause at 24.30 in 10 inning. Australian vice-captain must be looking to better this number.
Cheteshwar Pujara vs Nathan Lyon:
India’s no. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara is better known for his spin playing ability and known as One of the best players of spin bowling in India. On the other hand, Australians are heavily relying on Nathan Lyon even though Steve O’Keefe did well in opening Test. None could doubt the technique of Chetshwar Pujara and the accuracy of offie Nathan Lyon. Since last few months Nathan Lyon has bettered his bowling, now he is much accurate and more controlled.
Ravichandran Ashwin vs Steve Smith:
If we say Ravichandran Ashwin is Virat Kohli of Indian spin bowling and the Chennai-born spinner has racked up all sorts of record in past year. Being a top wicket-taker this season, Ravi Ashwin has conquered visitors easily; now it is time for him to put up the same feat against Aussies as well. Steve Smith will be a big threat for Indian bowlers as he has a habit of scoring runs consistently. With His unusual technique and ability to score big, Ashwin will be looking to give Steve Smith a send off early.
Ajinkya Rahane vs Steve O’Keefe:
One is coming back from injury and fighting to be back in his usual touch and the other came as a surprise package for the Team India in the first Test, picking up 12 wickets in his first Test against India in India is not an easy job.
Ajinkya Rahane, on the other hand, is fighting to get back to his usual best since England series, In his absence, Karun Nair scored a tripple ton and now India’s Mr Dependable will be looking for a big inning to decimate Kangaroos.