Cricketing rivalries have rarely been as entertaining as the one in recent years between India and Australia. Each game is played like a grudge match and neither team spares itself on the pitch. Here are five reasons you can look forward to this series.
1. Cricket ka badshah kaun? Both teams have been angling for cricketing supremacy in the short and long formats of the game. This series of 5 ODIs and 3 T20s will define, at least for this year, the best cricket playing nation in the world in the limited overs format. The stakes could not be higher.
2. Sabse bade khiladis. Both teams possess an abundance of talent. India’s traditionally solid batting line is now bolstered by a spanking new pace attack and a fresh crop of wily spinners. Australia’s line-up led by Steve Smith has a great mix of youth and experience, and more importantly, many Australian players available for selection have played in the IPL and know Indian conditions well. Which brings us to the next point.
3. Home advantage, what’s that? In previous years, a home advantage was much sought after since the home team would be more familiar with the conditions and crowds. Now, however, this will not be so much of a factor. Australian players have become familiar with Indian conditions since they’ve been playing here frequently in international tournaments and the IPL.
4. It’s the perfect time for the perfect series. It’s the absolute best time of the year to be an Indian Cricket fan! Between an August full of long weekends and a festive October, you can chill in September by watching this series without any distractions. In fact, it’s almost like the festive excitement has started a month in advance.
5. Nothing unites India like cricket. It’s our favourite cliche and there’s so much truth to this, we don’t know where to start. Whether it’s your cubicle colleague at work or your neighbourhood sabzi vendor, this September, everyone will be talking about Kohli, Smith, Warner, Pandya, and so many others.
There are of course many more reasons to watch the India-Australia series which will be broadcast on Star Sports and will be available to view on Hotstar. For now, watch this video of what you can expect from the series.
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