By Ashish Shukla
They are desperate to avoid a whitewash against Australia in the ongoing Test series but the Indian cricket team will not have it easy as "extra bounce" and "more grass" will be there on the pitch being readied for the fourth and final Test starting here on Tuesday.
Published: Jan 20, 2012, 12:30 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 20, 2012, 12:30 PM (IST)
A general view of the Adelaide Oval, where the fourth and final Test between India and Australia will be played © Getty Images
By Ashish Shukla
Adelaide: Jan 20, 2012
They are desperate to avoid a whitewash against Australia in the ongoing Test series but the Indian cricket team will not have it easy as “extra bounce” and “more grass” will be there on the pitch being readied for the fourth and final Test starting here on Tuesday.
“There would be more grass and there would be more bounce. In many ways it would be similar to last time,” said curator Damien Hough.
The “last time” Hough referred to was the Test against England two years ago when the visitors won by an innings and 71 runs.
Batting first, Australia made 245 runs to which England replied with 610 runs. From then on, there was no escaping for Australia in the second innings.
“There would be something for the fast bowlers on the opening day,” said Hough.
“Then it would be good for batting on day two and three and variable bounce would come into picture on the final two days,” he added.
Though Australia is chasing a 4-0 scoreline, Hough stressed there was no pressure on him to prepare a designer pitch to suit the home team.
“I haven’t heard from anyone. I am not affected by the scoreline. My aim is to make as good a pitch as possible.”
Hough said the extra grass cover is provided due to the hot conditions prevailing here.
“There could be weather disturbance on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. But the temperature is 36-37 degree leading up to the Test. We have ensured the grass cover doesn’t let it happen,” he said.
Among the Indians, coach Duncan Fletcher has so far chatted up to him.
“He made general queries,” replied Hough.
Matches this season haven’t lasted the distance but Hough said it was the least of his concern.
All he wants is to prepare a pitch which lives up to the reputation of Adelaide — largely batting-friendly with spin coming in picture on the final two days. (PTI)
