Justin Langer, Australia vs India 2018/19
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Australia head coach, Justin Langer said the hosts would show great respect to Virat Kohli’s men in the upcoming four-match Test series starting from December 6 in Adelaide. Meanwhile, team India had never won a Test series in Australia, and their recent overseas records have also been weak. In 2018 itself, they lost 1-2 against South Africa and a 1-4 defeat to England.

We know India would be upbeat – Langer

However, Langer could sense the confidence in Virat Kohli’s unit which also reminds him of the great Australian team of the early 2000s. The side then led by great Steve Waugh had won in India after ending more than a three-decade-long drought.

“You sense they’re smelling blood. Just like the great Australian cricket team of 2001 felt and we just fell short (of winning in India), and we were able to (win in) 2004. You sense these moments. I’m sensing India feel that.” Justin Langer told Australian radio channel SEN’s Whateley.

Justin Langer, Australia vs India 2018/19
Justin Langer says Indian team would be hungry for success Down Under. Image Courtesy: Getty

Moreover, Justin Langer said Virat Kohli and Co. are a good team, but they would be a bit of under pressure. Knowing the success rate Down Under has under-impressive, the head coach urged his team to start well and build pressure accordingly.

“They’re a good team, and they’ve got a couple of great players, and we will show them great respect,” he said. “They haven’t had great success in Australia in the past, as Australia haven’t had in India. They’ll also be under great pressure, I think.” Langer added.

Langer’s view on the debutant

Justin Langer, Marcus Harris
Marcus Harris to debut for Australia in Adelaide Test. Image Courtesy: Getty

Meanwhile, Tim Paine’s men will have a debutant opener on Thursday, as Marcus Harris got named in the playing XI. On the other hand, India will have the experience of Murali Vijay, and KL Rahul in the top slot, as the young Prithvi Shaw is unavailable due to an ankle injury.

“We’re pretty sure Marcus Harris will make his debut which is very exciting for him,” Justin Langer said. “He’s scored 500 runs in Shield cricket in eight innings, that’s a great way to go into a Test match. He’s a terrific young player and he’s looked very good in some of the most competitive net sessions I’ve seen for a long time in Australian cricket. Harris looked very composed.” Justin Langer concluded.

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