India vs Australia 2017: All you need to know about the first Test in Pune

#1 India’s top-order versus Australia’s pacers

Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara have stitched together plenty of key partnerships

Average-wise, VIjay and Pujara form the best batting duo in Indian Test history. Both batsmen possess extensive reservoirs of patience and are a throwback to the days gone by with their classical approach. While the Tamil Nadu opener looks easy on the eye, the Saurashtra stalwart wears bowlers down by occupying the crease for long periods of time. As ever, the duo’s partnership will be key in blunting Australia’s pacers and setting the platform for Kohli to run riot.

Extra Cover: India vs Australia 2017 – 5 key player battles to watch out for

Similarly, Australia will be relying heavily on Warner and Smith to accumulate substantial totals. The latter could bat at three to separate the cluster of left-handers at the top of the order. In the bowling department, they should be aware that if their pacers do not land early blows, they could find themselves chasing leather all day.