Former Australia wicket-keeper bat Brad Haddin has warned the Pat Cummins-led team that India could play Kanpur-style cricket in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar trophy. India was able to snatch a win from the jaws of draw against Bangladesh after more than two days of action was washed out by rain.
India declared at 285-9 off just 34.4 overs in the first innings as they scored their runs at a run rate of 8.28. Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 72 runs off just 51 balls whereas KL Rahul also got back into form to score a crucial knock of 68 runs off just 43 balls.
After taking a 52-run lead in the first innings, Indian bowlers were then able to bundle out Bangladesh at 146 in the second essay and chased down 95 runs with ease.
On being asked if India can replicate the same show against Australia, Haddin said on Listnr podcast, “I actually do. Because if you look at this result… the worst result for India would’ve been a draw. There was no way India would’ve lost it. Rohit had nothing to lose. How good was it to watch! It’s a wonderful way to win Test cricket.”
Meanwhile, India has won the last two Test series while playing on the Australian soil and they will be confident of replicating the same show once again.
Haddin believes teams are scared as Rohit Sharma is known to find ways to manipulate a result and lauded the Indian team for always playing with a winning mindset.
“They gave themselves a chance to win the game. It wasn’t about how many runs I score, it’s about finding enough time to bowl Bangladesh out. They played a great brand of cricket, but it was all about giving them enough time. My hat goes off to support staff, Rohit Sharma… he has always been this sort of captain: Win first. I love the style of cricket.
“They could’ve had a net session, gone for a draw, no one would have said a thing. The mindset of Rohit Sharma to find a way to manipulate a result… teams are scared to go 10 runs/over in 20 overs cricket! So, I take my hats off to India.”
The opening Test match between India and Australia will be played at Perth from November 22 onwards.
