Smith admits Australia are underdogs
PUNE: Australia’s cricket captain Steve Smith has admitted his inexperienced side will be the underdogs when they face the world’s top-ranked side India on their home turf but bristled at suggestions of a possible 4-0 whitewash.
India are unbeaten in 19 Tests over a 18-month period with South Africa, New Zealand, England and Bangladesh all vanquished at home, while trips to Sri Lanka and West Indies also culminated in victo- ries. By contrast, Smith’s side — ranked No. 2 — were thrashed 3-0 in Sri Lanka and lost the first two Tests of a three-match home series against South Africa before big changes led to a consolation win in Adelaide and the new team went on to sweep aside Pakistan.
Not many critics have given the touring side a chance while former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has predicted a 4-0 sweep for the hosts.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion, however I don’t believe that’s the case,” Smith said on Wednesday, when asked to react to Harbhajan’s comments. “I’m confident in the squad we’ve got here to compete against India.
“No doubt it’s going to be a difficult series. India have played some very good cricket of late, particularly at home. So we’re under no illusions there, it’s going to be tough.”