Indian conditions perfect for World Cup build-up

BOWLING in Indian conditions at arguably the strongest batting line-up in cricket would only help Australia as they seek a sixth World Cup title in England, according to pace bowler Pat Cummins.

Australia face India in a five-match one-day international series with both sides deep in preparation for the 30 May-14 July tournament in England and Wales.

While India’s dry and low-bounce wickets are typically not going to be similar to the green-topped pitches Cummins and his fellow fast bowlers can expect to assist them in Britain, the 25-year-old said wear and tear could see the blocks in England play similarly towards the end of the tournament.

“The conditions will be different here than they will be in the World Cup,” Cummins told reporters. “(But) there are a lot of games at the World Cup.

“So by the end ... the wickets might be a bit more tired and spin a bit more like the Indian wickets.

“(But) I think playing cricket anywhere is good preparation.”

Virat Kohli’s India are likely to enter the World Cup as co-favourites with hosts England, having secured a thumping 4-1 series victory in New Zealand without appearing to get out of second gear and Cummins recognised facing the two-time champions would be perfect for his side’s preparations.

“Challenging yourself against the world’s best batsmen, seeing how they go about it, seeing what works in these conditions will be pretty transferable to the World Cup,” Cummins said.

“As bowlers if you can take wickets in the middle overs, especially against a really good lineup on wickets that are not as bowler friendly then that will put us in great stead for the World Cup.” |