India has the all-important 1-0 lead in the five-match One-Day International against the World Champions Australia after they defeated Steve Smith and his boys in a rain-affected game in Chennai. The Aussies are tough competitors and will be looking to bounce back and the tie the game while the Men in Blue are in such a position where a win can change the shape of the series, nonetheless, it’s surely going to be a mouthwatering tie in the famous Eden Gardens, the home of Indian cricket.
Last time the two sides met at the Eden Gardens, it was back in 2003 in the tri-nation TVS Cup which also featured New Zealand. In the final, Australia batting first posted a formidable total of 236, DR Martyn led the charge, scoring 61 but the partnership of Bevan and Clarke also played an important role. Chasing the score, India went from 159/4 after 39 overs, with Dravid and Badani batting sensibly, to 198 all out in 41.5 overs. India’s middle order collapse was incredible and once the tail was exposed, the Australian capitalized and won yet another trophy. India had lost six wickets for 39 runs.
When these two sides meet once again at the famous ground after 14 long years, India are well equipped, their batting particularly the middle order has been very stable unlike back in 2003 while Australia are not as stocked as like back in the day where winning had become a simple routine.
Australia would love the repeat of 2003 but India are at the top of their game and things won’t that simple. However, Australia are still a top side and both teams have to dig deep to come out victorious.