The absence of Virat Kohli is going to leave a huge void in India’s batting, but as per former India captain Anil Kumble, the tourists need to grapple another challenge against Australia in the upcoming four-Test series.
Kumble, the third-highest wicket-taker of all times in Tests, reckons India will need to embrace the challenge of the pink ball Test match, and provided they can stay on top in the series opener at the Adelaide Cricket Ground, the former leg-spinner feels the team will be able to repeat their heroics from two years ago.
India have played only one Day/Night Test so far, while Australia are veteran of seven D/N Tests. The Indians, as part of preparations, are currently playing a pink-ball Test in Sydney. Kumble is confident that India will have their work cut out once Kohli returns to India, which means the Adelaide Test becomes all the more important.
“Since India is starting the Test series with a pink ball, that’ll be the biggest challenge. If we can stay ahead in the first Test match then India has a great chance to repeat what they did in the last Australia tour,” Kumble was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo during a webinar organised by L&T Financial Services Mutual Fund’s annual conclave The Winner’s Circle.
“Although with [Steven] Smith and [David] Warner coming back [after their ball-tampering bans the last time] and then Virat [Kohli] missing the three Test matches will obviously be a big factor for India. But having said that, there’s enough ability within the team, be it batting or bowling.”