After going 1-0 down in an exciting Adelaide Test, Australia barely have no time to fix their problems before the second Test against India at the Perth Stadium, starting from December 14 (Friday).
Meanwhile, they lost by 31 runs at the Adelaide Oval to start the four-match Test series. Australia However, the scoreline flattered a side that tried their hearts out but still fell short against opponents. The hosts have only three days to fix their problems, and many of the issues facing Paine appear to have no quick fix.
Paine’s fitness is also a concern as he nurses a sore right index finger struck on the glove by a short Mohammed Shami ball. Paine who received immediate treatment admitted that he would be ready to play the Perth Test. But, former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting noted it was the same finger that has had seven separate surgeries in the past.
In addition to, incumbent Test opener Aaron Finch raised concern as he failed to make a mark in both the innings. He bagged a duck in the first innings followed by a score of 11 runs in the second essay. Justin Langer has repeatedly emphasised the need for a solid start from Australia’s top three, which seems Finch is heading in one of only two directions — down the order or out of the team.
“Finch is obviously the major one (under pressure),” former Australia captain Ian Chappell told local broadcaster Nine Network. “Whether they go with him as an opener in the second test. He’s the one that’s most under pressure,” he added.