#1 Focus on India’s middle-order
With Kohli reeling from a troubling shoulder as well as indifferent form, India’s middle-order is appearing increasingly shaky. The onus is on second-in-line Rahane to prevent the Australian bowlers from having a sniff. The Mumbaikar showed glimpses of his value during the team’s second innings in Bengaluru. Higher altitude and swing-friendly conditions in Dharamsala could play into his strengths.
Upon delivering a combined tally of 83 overs in the Ranchi Test, Hazlewood and Cummins might need to dig deep into their fitness reservoirs. Needless to say, the duo will be extremely crucial to the visitors’ chances. If the Indian batsmen manage to stretch their workloads and wear them down, skipper Smith could find himself under severe consternation.
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