Carrara, Nov 4 (NationPress) Australia’s spinner Matt Kuhnemann is optimistic that his team’s quick bowlers will outplay India’s standout opener Abhishek Sharma in the upcoming fourth T20I match at the Gold Coast Stadium on Thursday.

The local player, who is thrilled to perform at his home ground, labeled Abhishek as a “serious talent” and acknowledged that Australia will need to secure early wickets to rein in India’s formidable batting lineup.

“I’m hopeful that either Xavier Bartlett or one of the fast bowlers — Benny Dwarshuis — can claim his wicket in the initial overs. He’s truly a serious talent and attacks from the very first ball,” Kuhnemann expressed to the media on Tuesday. “This match is set to be an exciting spectacle on Thursday, but we are counting on these players to dismiss him early.”

This match will be significant as it marks India’s inaugural men’s international at the Gold Coast Stadium, also recognized as the People First Stadium. So far, the venue has accommodated only two men’s T20Is, three women’s T20Is, and a single women’s Test. Although primarily an AFL venue, it is still adapting to international cricket. For Kuhnemann, this match represents both thrill and a homecoming.

“Playing here is a joy, and it’s wonderful to reconnect with friends and family,” he noted. “The pitch improves yearly, so I anticipate a great pitch and a high-scoring affair. The Gold Coast is blossoming as a cricket hotbed in Australia. With a rapidly increasing population, we’re producing some exceptional cricketers this year. Hence, more matches are always welcome.”

Kuhnemann also pointed out the unique design of the ground, emphasizing how its AFL-style dimensions can impact strategies and outcomes. “It’s an oddly-shaped ground where you can excel, but it also has areas where you can be hit hard, so we’ll see how it plays out,” he remarked. “Securing wickets is vital against the middle order of both teams. There are significant and short pockets here. Maxwell has had success playing here, so I might seek advice from him. It’s a distinctive ground; it’s an AFL venue.”

With both teams scheduled to practice at the venue on Wednesday, Kuhnemann predicts a high-scoring showdown on Thursday. As discussions about the IPL auction intensify, the 27-year-old emphasizes his commitment to performing for Australia instead of pursuing franchise opportunities. “I would love to play in the IPL. However, landing a spot as a spinner is quite challenging, so I don’t dwell on it much. I genuinely enjoy playing cricket anywhere globally, whether in England, India, or elsewhere,” he stated.