5 reasons for Australian spinners' supremacy in the first Test

#3 Support of captain

Smith offered his spinners confidence

The success of Australian spinners should also be credited to their skipper Steve Smith who offered full support to the spinners and boosted their morale.

Australia entered this match with three seamers and two spinners, including the part-time services of Mitchell Marsh. It was an indication that Australia might focus on their traditional strength which has been pace. But, Smith, after having first-hand experience of the pitch, preferred spinners over the fast bowlers.

Smith gave O’Keefe the new ball with Starc and this reflected the tremendous trust he had in his spinners. In the second innings, Lyon and O’Keefe were given the complete license and bowled for the major part of the innings.

In this Test match, O’Keefe and Lyon bowled 51 overs while the seamers were utilised for only 24 overs.