Adelaide Oval curator Damian Hough has shed light on the pitch and conditions ahead of the highly anticipated day-night Test between India vs Australia, starting December 6. The match, which will be played with the pink ball, promises an intriguing contest between two top cricketing nations.
Speaking to the media, Hough revealed that the pitch has been prepared with 6mm of grass to create a balanced contest between bat and ball. While the grass is expected to assist the pacers early on, spinners are also likely to come into play as the match progresses. However, rain may spoilsport for Day 1, which could enhance swing and seam movement for the bowlers.
“History suggests it’s hard to bat under lights in Adelaide,” Hough said. “We’ve prepared a pitch with 6mm of grass, aiming for a good balance. The pitch didn’t play a role in the previous Test finishing in three days when India were here. That was due to exceptional bowling by Australia. As long as there’s something for everyone—batters, pacers, and spinners—I’ll be happy.”
Hough also emphasized that the movement of the pink ball depends largely on weather conditions rather than the pitch itself. "The ball hooping around has got nothing to do with the pitch. Under right conditions, right weather, the ball will move," he further added.
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India won the first test and took an unassailable lead of 1-0, having secured a resounding 295-run victory over Australia in Perth. They dominated the warm up match against Prime Minister's XI which was played with pink ball in Canberra. The back to back wins will serve as momentum as India look to bury the ghost in Adelaide. The last time India played in Adelaide, they were bowled out for 36 - their lowest ever Test total in Test cricket.
