Hussey predicts Test-ing times
Many Australians featured in the IPL earlier in the summer, but that stint in the subcontinent will not necessarily make it easier for the players to get the runs in the forthcoming Tests, feels Michael Hussey, reports Arjun Sen.
Many Australians featured in the Indian Premier League earlier in the summer, but that stint in the subcontinent will not necessarily make it easier for the players to get the runs in the forthcoming Tests, feels Michael Hussey.
Hussey, who played the opening four matches of the IPL for the Chennai team, said: "I wouldn't say playing in the IPL will make it easier to perform here. Test cricket is a completely different challenge compared to T20s, so it will always be a challenge to perform in India."
Hussey said the key to tackling India's spinners was to rotate the strike and not let the bowler settle into any sort of a rhythm where he was bowling at a certain batsman over a period of time.
"I think you have to be positive. The trick is to rotate the strike and put the pressure back on the bowler," Hussey said.
"The thing about this Australian batting line-up is that we are all very different players, who play spin differently. Each of us has a definite plan and we will look to stick to that. It will be a great challenge, but that's why we play the game," he added.
Hussey also said it would be dangerous on Australia's part to focus solely on the spin threat posed by India, especially with the pacers the hosts have in their ranks.
"I think focussing just on the spin is dangerous. They have good quicks as well, and if we focus too much on their spinners, we might be underprepared come the first Test."
About his own form, the southpaw said: "I did feel over the last year or so I was not in the best of touches. Every innings was a lot of hard work. But then again, that's what Test match cricket is all about.
"But I took some time off and ironed a few flaws, which I felt were creeping in, and am raring to go now."