No-whingeing policy over mystery wicket

AUSTRALIA’S batsmen are preparing to play on a used wicket in the first Test against Bangladesh, but won’t spook themselves with doomsday theories.

Series victory eluded the team in India, but one of the great advancements on that tour was Australian players finally learning to conquer the psychology of the pitch.

In the infamous 60-all-out Ashes Test at Trent Bridge of 2013 and on last year’s failed tour of Sri Lanka, it seemed one look at those wickets had Australia mentally beaten before they padded up.

There’s nothing devious about the Bangladeshi pitch preparation, but in a country overwhelmed by rain and not blessed with resources, the Australians are once again preparing for a minefield, with marks and scuffs already covering the surface. Captain Steve Smith has enforced a no-whinge policy.

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon said: “To be honest, I had a look at the wicket and I’m not really sure what to expect. It’s a used wicket. Looked dry to me. It’s going to be interesting. We’re just going to have to adapt.

“Steve has really drilled [the psychology of looking at the pitch] into the team. I think that’s one of his strengths as captain.

“That no matter what we’re playing on, it’s the same for both teams. He’s been able to direct us in that way — to the no-whingeing policy.

“After winning on probably the worst pitch I’ve ever played on in Pune, it’s given the Australian cricket team a lot of confidence. Especially when you beat the No.1 team in their back yard.”

Australia got a full main training session in yesterday, ahead of tomorrow’s first Test start.

However the threat of Bangladesh’s monsoon season is ever present.