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Shock pics show David Warner could make a HUGE change to his batting in Test series versus India

Feb. 8, 2023
Shock pics show David Warner could make a HUGE change to his batting in Test series versus India

Photos from India have revealed David Warner may make the bold decision to bat right-handed in a bid to combat the heavily doctored wicket in the first Test in Nagpur.

It would be a huge gamble given the 36-year-old has struggled in the subcontinent across his career in red-ball cricket.

From his 16 previous innings in India, Warner has blasted just three half-centuries with a highest score of 71. 

His average of 24.25 also won't exactly have the hosts on edge.

Warner's switch hitting hasn't always paid off.

In the T20 World Cup on home soil last November, the veteran was bowled by Afghanistan quick Naveen-ul-Haq after Warner mistimed his shot when batting right-handed.

India may play four spinners in their XI, with Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja selection certainties.   

Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are also said to be in the mix.

Besides Warner, Australia's top order is dominated by left handers - including Usman Khawaja and Travis Head.

In contrast, India's batting line up has two.

It is also why the pitch has been clearly doctored to help the home side, with the ground staff at Nagpur captured refusing to roll or water the areas outside off stump for left-handers.

The tactic will ensure those parts of the pitch are rough and dry - giving India's spinners a big advantage against the southpaw Aussies. 

But if Australia are rattled, they aren't showing it. 

'You have to embrace it,' skipper Pat Cummins told SEN Radio in relation to the pre-Test mind games from India.

'Even as a fast bowler you have to think differently, that's good fun. We're up for it.'

Victorian off-spinner Todd Murphy is poised to make his Test debut, bowling in tandem with Nathan Lyon.

The 22-year-old has snared 29 wickets with an average of 25 in seven first class matches.

'He's been bowling beautifully in the nets over here,' Cummins added.

'He's ready – everyone in the squad here has had really good preparation. Whoever we pick is 100 per cent ready to go. '

Australia last played two right arm off-spinners with Tim May and Peter Taylor on the 1988 tour of Pakistan.

Play in Nagpur begins at 3pm (AEDT) on Thursday. 


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