Kasper warns Aussies
CricInfo, undated
Michael Kasprowicz, the Australian fast bowler, has said that the upcoming seven-match one-day tour of India in October should be a challenge for his side in tough bowling conditions. He said that the series promises to be an exciting build-up to India's return tour starting in December, which includes three Tests and a triangular tournament also featuring Sri Lanka."It's going to be good cricket," Kasprowicz told PTI. "Australia are the World Cup champions. It will be a good test for them in India, where conditions are tough." Kasprowicz has proved his worth in Indian conditions after three tours, in 1998, 2001 and 2004. In eight Tests he has picked up 19 wickets, including a five-wicket haul, and 11 wickets in six one-dayers. However, he's been out of the side since the tour of South Africa last year, and injuries to his back and groin have delayed his comeback. Despite Glenn McGrath's retirement, he will still have to fight for a spot with the emergence of Nathan Bracken, Shaun Tait and Stuart Clark as potent seam bowlers. Looking ahead to India's tour, Kasprowicz highlighted the performance of India's fast bowlers in England and stated that they could be a handful. The seamers, led by Zaheer Khan, have accounted for 31 out of 40 wickets after the first two Tests. "The Indian bowlers have been doing well," he said. "They are swinging the ball a lot. The pace attack is a good blend of senior and younger players. Some of them have not been seen before in Australia. This tour will be a good test for them." With Sachin Tendulkar among the runs in England, Kasprowicz felt the forthcoming series in Australia promises to be an interesting duel between Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting. "It will be a good series in Australia. I am looking forward to watching it. There will be an interesting duel between Sachin and Ponting when the Indians come." Reflecting on the new-look Australian Test team following a spurt of retirements, Kasprowicz said that their departure wouldn't affect the team, and the bench strength is strong enough to keep the momentum going. Justin Langer, Damien Martyn, McGrath and Shane Warne retired after the recent Ashes series. "The Australians have good belief in themselves. There is a good base of players. In the last few years the side has lost some big players. But it has also provided opportunity for new players to come up. The transition is not a problem."
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