by bigfluffylemon » Wed Dec 16, 2020 10:28 pm
After an evenly split limited-overs leg of the tour, in just Sydney and Canberra, we move to a more traditional looking test tour.
1st test 17-21 Dec, Adelaide (D/N)
2nd test 26-30 Dec, Melbourne
3rd test 7-11 Jan, Sydney
4th test, 15-19 Jan, Brisbane
Unusual to be playing a test in Brisbane this late in the season. Brisbane's usually the opener in late November/early December, not just because of the psychological advantage it gives the home side, but because of the climate - it's too bloody hot, humid and stormy in mid to late summer. Given Australia's in a 'La Nina' summer (a far cry from last summer's fires, thank heavens), I would not be surprised to see some rain disruption to these later games. Adelaide is set fair. Because, well, Adelaide.
India won a famous victory on their last tour here, but had a full strength side against an Australia down on two key players. With the tables turned this time - Smith available for Australia, along with a full strength bowling line-up, plus Kohli heading home after the first test, and how hard it is to beat Australia at home even under the best of circumstances, you'd have to favour the home team.
It'll be strange after a long year to see test cricket played in front of crowds. But restrictions in Australia are now almost nil, so unless there is a surge in COVID cases from Christmas and a return to restrictions, expect to see packed houses.