BGT 2024-25: Hayden Urges India to Bat First Despite Tough Conditions
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New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) Matthew Hayden, the former Australian opener, has suggested that India should bat first in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, which kicks off on December 14, even if the conditions at the Gabba in Brisbane are tough.
The ongoing five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series is currently tied 1-1 after Australia defeated India by 10 wickets at Adelaide Oval. The last Test India played in Brisbane saw them triumph over Australia by three wickets, clinching the 2020/21 series 2-1, thanks to Rishabh Pant's remarkable 89 not out.
“Brisbane, a completely different scenario! It’s a home match, but it’s actually a favorable situation for India as they have positive memories from their last encounter with Australia in the BGT!”
“India needs to improve their batting, ensuring they bat for time. They must last through a day of Test cricket. Anything under that is unacceptable. They should aim to score around 350 runs. India should bat first even under challenging conditions,” Hayden stated during an interview with Star Sports.
Hayden also analyzed how the Indian bowlers, particularly the fast bowlers, can effectively dismiss Australian batters early by targeting the channel outside the off-stump. In the match at Adelaide, India failed to dismiss Travis Head early on, who later scored a pivotal 140 runs.
“When India gets the opportunity to bowl, they should focus on maintaining a line around the fourth and fifth stump. Most importantly, they must utilize their bounce. This is a crucial element for a fast bowling unit in Brisbane. The red ball will certainly be more familiar in terms of Test cricket. Australia has excelled with the pink ball, achieving numerous victories!”
