Uphill Climb For Aussies

After the sound drubbing against India in the second test of the ongoing Border Gavaskar trophy, Aussies face an uphill test to even the scores in the third test to be held at Delhi. Indian skipper Anil Kumble who missed the Mohali test because of the sore shoulder is expected to be back for the third test. Delhi has always been a happy hunting ground for Kumble.

The Australian pace attack which underperformed in the previous test has its work cut out as Brett Lee still struggles to find his rhythm and Stuart Clark still has fitness worries. Mitchell Johnson has been the most impressive seamer on view for the Aussies on this tour. Peter Siddle who made his debut at Mohali is expected to sit out if Stuart Clark is declared fit. The Aussies are expected to persist with all-rounder Cameron White as the main spinner inspite of his poor performance with the bat.

The batting department has its own concerns with its talismanic opener Matthew Hayden still to fire in the series. Skipper Ricky Ponting has continued his wretched form in India apart from his inspiring century in the first test. Vice captain Michael Clarke is also yet to contribute substantially.

The series could very well be decided at Delhi. If Aussies are to come back from behind and take the series their frontline batsmen and bowlers need to contribute consistently.