The third test was set to take place in Dharmshala but due to ground maturity reasons, it has been shifted to Holkar Stadium. The new pitch is known for significantly helping spinners so once again, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will form the haunting duo. Espically, Ashwin who average just over 12 with the ball at this specific ground.
India has played two test matches on this venue and both resulted in profound victory in favour of India. Due to the poor state of the outfield, which has some bare areas after just being re-laid and is located at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, the game has been cancelled.
“According to the BCCI, “the outfield lacks proper grass density and will need some time to mature fully because to the severe winter weather in the region.”
Given that it was the location most suited for quick bowling, it adds to a string of setbacks for Australia.
Australian media has took the issue in a different manner and spread the news as if BCCI is trying to outfox the visitors using custom made pitches to which Australians are no better than aliens.
India is already leading the series, moving ahead with perfect playing eleven. On the other hand, Australia is struggling to find a rhythmic and collaborative playing 11. When they played in home conditions, things were rather different and they found it easy to surprise the visitors.
Playing in away conditions brings a whole lot of different challenge. It starts from adapting new conditions to adjusting batting and bowling setup. They were taken by surprise in the first test match but with Mitchell Starc and. Travis Head making their way into the team, things can go different for the Australian team.