Since the WTC final is on the line, the tourists are also leaving no stone unturned in terms of preparations for the 4-match red-ball battle. The spinners are going to play a major role, and therefore, the chances of the Aussies shining in the Tests could potentially rest on the manner in which the visiting batters tackle the Indian tweakers.
The biggest challenge for the Australians would be of Ravichandran Ashwin, who will be lethal in his home conditions. Taking note of that, the touring party have roped in Mahesh Pithiya to tackle Ashwin’s spin threat. Notably, Australia’s last two Test tours of India have been forgettable as they suffered a humbling 4-0 whitewash in 2013, followed by a 2-1 defeat on their next trip four years later in 2017.
In an attempt to tackle the spin, especially the challenge against Ashwin, Australia have set up a camp at the KSCA ground in Alur on the outskirts of Bengaluru and picked Pithiya, a right-arm off-spinner whose action is very similar to Ashwin. Pithiya has played 4 First Class and 1 T20 match for Baroda.
In a video which is doing the rounds on social media, Pithiya can be seen bowling to Australian batting maestro Steve Smith. The Aussie vice-captain was also heard saying, “well-bowled, mate”. Even Australian opener Matthew Renshaw exclaimed, “this guy bowls just like Ashwin” from the adjoining net.
Here is the video:
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