Shikhar’s absence a boost, says Agar
CHENNAI: Australia started their mind games 48 hours ahead of the marquee ODI series against India by claiming an advantage after Shikhar Dhawan pulled out of the first three matches for personal reasons. With two centuries against Australia and an average of 44.71, Dhawan was expected to propel India to quick starts with long-time ODI partner Rohit Sharma.
“Shikhar is in good form, so him not playing is a positive for us,” Agar said at a press conference on Friday.
Dhawan’s pullout has left the India team management mulling last-minute changes to what was thought to be a settled top-order. It also means India have Axar Patel as the only recognised lefthand batsman, making Australia’s bowling strategy easier.
“Yes, it (left-right combination) can make things hard. In that case, ball swings in a particular direction, making things difficult for the fielding team. So now, (with Shikhar’s absence) it is a bit advantage for us. We have to go there for the best and see what combination they set,” Agar said.
The pitch at the warm-up game earlier this week assisted the spinners but it still remains to be seen if Australia will field two spinners in the first ODI. Agar himself was uncertain. “It all depends on the wicket. Adam obviously is the frontline spinner in the squad and he has bowled really (well) in these conditions in the IPL and previous tours. It’s obvious he will start,” Agar said, adding, “If the wicket remains (good), I think there might be a chance (for me).”
Agar said wrist spinners like Zampa and Yuzvendra Chahal could have an impact on this series because they don’t have to depend on the pitch to extract spin. “They are really valuable assets. They can spin the ball both ways. When it’s night time, it’s hard to pick the wrong one as well. They are good bowlers and are wicket-taking options for the side. They can be hard to get away,” he said.
“I think they will play a big role in the series. I think they can certainly put more on the ball. They don’t need more of the spinning wicket to spin the ball and they are clever, the legspinners.”