Australian skipper Steve Smith has accepted the India spin threat going into their much-awaited Champions Trophy semi-final encounter, with a stress on the overriding importance of middle overs in deciding the course of the match.
Addressing the media, Smith pointed to India’s world-class spinners, such as Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, as some of the important factors that might dictate the tempo of the game. He emphasized the need to build partnerships and rotate strike in response to India’s slow-bowling attack on what promises to be a turning track.
Australia, which is famous for its aggressive batting style, has been practicing hard against spin in the nets, with batsmen such as Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell focusing on their footwork and sweep shots. Smith also suggested possible tactical adjustments in the batting lineup to combat India’s bowling plans.
With both sides in peak condition, the semi-final promises to be a high-tension match, with Australia seeking another ICC championship and India seeking to prove its supremacy on home turf. Cricket enthusiasts across the globe are in for a masala-spiced encounter between two of the sport’s most formidable giants.
