Ian Chappell, Australia vs India 2018/19
Ian Chappell has said because of a potent bowling line-up, Australia cannot be underestimated. Image Courtesy: Getty

For the very first time in years, India will go in as the favourites against Australia in the upcoming Test series, which begins December 6h in Adelaide. Meanwhile, a depleted Aussie side is still on the move. However, according to Ian Chappell, the hosts shouldn’t be taken lightly at any cost because of their top-class bowlers.

With Tim Paine leading the team, Australia will bank on the new guns to fire. Unfortunately for them, Steven Smith and David Warner are still serving their respective bans, and the side will miss the experienced campaigners. However, Chappell feels Australia have a strong bowling line-up, featuring – Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.

Australia packs a punch in bowling

Ian Chappell, Australia vs India 2018/19
Ian Chappell says Australia’s bowling would keep them in the series. Image Courtesy: Getty

“Australia should not be underestimated: they have a top-class attack, headed by three excellent fast bowlers in Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Patrick Cummins. As a result of three suspensions, Australia will field a depleted batting line-up, which means their bowlers will be even more determined to limit the opposition’s scoring,” Chappell wrote in his column for ESPNCricinfo on Sunday.

“No matter how depleted the Australian squad might be or how much chaos surrounds the national team, the players will give their all on the field. With Australia looking to temper their on-field behaviour after the ball-tampering debacle, the Indians had better believe that while this may result in a reduction in verbals, there will be no let-up on the short-pitched deliveries,” he added.

Momentum on India’s side

Australia vs India 2018/19
India won the Sydney T20I against Australia. Image Courtesy: Getty

Meanwhile, India ended the T20I series on a winning note. Skipper Virat Kohli found some touch in Sydney. It will be a good news for the visitors, as he is their key man. The win in the 3rd T20I will hold India in a steady position, as they could have easily slipped down, conceding the series.

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However, the hosts grabbed a narrow win in the first game in Brisbane while rain spoiled the next one at the MCG. The home side enjoyed a 1-0 lead until India came out all guns blazing in the final game at the SCG on Wednesday.