Chennai: Australia all-rounder James Faulkner said here Monday that experience of playing in the IPL and last year’s ICC World Twenty20 in India will hold the visitors in good stead in the upcoming limited over series here.
India and Australia will play five ODIs and three T20 internationals, starting with the first 50-over game here September 17. And Faulkner said it would be a ‘test’ of character for Australia to beat in-form India at home.
“Most of the boys have played here in the IPL and T20 World Cup. So those experiences will help us,” Faulker said after the team’s training session at the MA Chidambaram stadium here.
“They (India) have played a lot of one-day cricket in the recent past. They are in really good nick right now. It is going to be a real test for us,” the Aussie all-rounder added.
Faulkner will return to the side after missing out on the Champions Trophy earlier this year. The big-hitting all-rounder, who bowls left-arm medium-pace, said he was happy to be back in the team and looked forward to putting up a solid performance against India.
“Obviously if you miss out any time on selection it is tough. I was four months away from the game. I had a bit of pre-season which has been nice, to get strong and fitter,” Faulkner informed.
“It was pretty tough (being left out). I think you ask any player when he gets left out it is not great fun. At the end of the day it is up to you to be back. I am excited to back in the group. I don’t really want to talk about the past. It is a good opportunity against a tough opposition in their own backyard,” Faulkner added.
Faulkner, who has played a few match-winning knocks in the past against India and was man of the match in the 2015 World Cup (50 overs) final, said he was looking forward to the upcoming series.
“The conditions here in Chennai are tough, it is hot and sweating too much. The boys are eager to get out there and play some good cricket, it is going to be a good series. The last time we were here we had some good, tough cricket, so we are all excited,” Faulkner pointed out.
No Finch in warm-up tie
Chennai: Australia opener Aaron Finch will miss the warm-up match against Board President’s XI to be played here Tuesday. However, the right-hander is not in any doubt for the ODI series opener Sunday against India. The Aussie had injured his calf playing for Surrey in England six weeks ago and has been working closely with physiotherapist Alex Kountouris over the past two days in order to be fit for Sunday’s game.
Press trust of India
