Mumba: Australian skipper Steve Smith stated here Tuesday that a series win in India would be a ‘lifetime’ achievement for his side and also added that they have plans both for Virat Kohli and Ravi Ashwin who are India’s No.1 batsman and bowler.
“It’s a great challenge to play in India. We know if we can pull something off and win a series here, we can look back at it in 10-20 years as some of the best times in our life, it will be lifetime achievement,” Smith told reporters during his first media conference after arriving here.
Australia, who are yet to win a Test in India since upsetting the hosts 2-1 in the best-of-three rubber way back in 2004-05, will commence their tour with a three-day warm-up game here against an India A squad.
“This is going to be a difficult tour and I am excited by that challenge. All of us are excited about what’s to come in the next six weeks,” added the 27-year-old.
Australia had prepared for some time in Dubai before reaching Mumbai late night Monday, and Smith said they had tried to play in conditions similar to what they will experience here. “We have played the turning ball, bouncing ball. All the players have their gameplans,” informed Smith. “When you play in India, it is imperative that you mix offence and defence. Only one of the two traits will not suffice,” he added.
Referring to Kohli, the Aussie counterpart said the Aussies are working hard to come up with ways to stop the incredible run-spree of the India skipper.
“Definitely, I am not going to come out with it (plans) in the open,” Smith said with a smile. “He’s a world class player and has been batting very well. He’s a big player for India along with the others. They have a strong top six and hopefully we can stop them,” Smith pointed out.
Talking about the Indian bowling Smith said, “They (India) have some great fast bowlers too apart from incredible spinners. The Indian bowlers can bowl well with the new ball and also reverse the old.
“As for Ashwin all our batters will have gameplans to try and counter him. We know he’s going to be difficult to face, but hopefully our guys will keep him out of the game as much as possible.”
About his team’s bowling attack, Smith singled out Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc as the two bowlers who could play a huge role in the series.
“I have a good mix of bowlers. In India reverse swing is very important and both Josh and Mitch are very good reverse swing bowlers. Starc is a big player for us,” Smith stated.
PTI