Subhayan Chakraborty in Brisbane
As Australia and India gear up for the third Test at the Gabba, both teams are likely to encounter a pitch that echoes the traditional characteristics of the venue, known for its life and bounce when played before Christmas.
The Gabba’s curator David Sandurski, along with his staff, was spotted at the venue using the heavy roller as the preparations for the high-octane clash continued. While the continuous work is being done in what looks like a complete green top, a ground-staff was spotted trimming the extra layer of grass. It is expected that further trimming will be done on Thursday and Friday.
Sandurski also provided what could be considered the best possible news for Australia, confirming that the pitch for this match will revert to the lively conditions typically seen in the pre-Christmas window. Though it could work as a double-edged sword, as India have an equally impressive pace attack. The timing is significant as Australia have historically performed better at the Gabba earlier in the summer, where the pitch tends to be fresher and more seamer-friendly.
Australia’s return to this ground comes with the shadow of one of their most talked-about defeats – the 2021 Test loss to India, which was the decider in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy back then. The match not only ended Australia’s undefeated run at the Gabba since 1988 but also highlighted how different the pitch behaved post-Christmas. The hosts were also stunned by the West Indies last summer, thanks to an inspired spell by Shamar Joseph, further emphasising the seasonal impact on the pitch.
The statistical contrast is stark: Australia have lost three out of five Tests at the Gabba post-Christmas compared to just seven losses in 61 matches held in early summer. Sandurski acknowledged the difference, stating: “Different times of the year definitely makes it different, it can be a slightly different pitch. Pitches later in the season might have a bit more wear and tear while the ones early in the season usually are a bit fresher and might have a bit more in them.”
Despite the seasonal variations, Sandurski stressed upon the consistency in pitch preparations, aiming for the traditional Gabba wicket known for its carry, pace and bounce. “Generally speaking, we still prepare the pitch the exact same way every time to try and get good carry, pace and bounce that the Gabba is known for,” he said.
Weather has been fickle this week, with poor overhead conditions forcing indoor training sessions for the hosts at the National Cricket Centre on Wednesday and rain looming, which could affect play. However, Sandurski is confident that the pitch will not resemble the one from two years ago when Australia quickly dispatched South Africa. However, a Sheffield Shield match between Queensland and Victoria, earlier this year, saw 15 wickets falling on the first day.
“The aim is to be similar to that wicket where there was a good balance between bat and ball,” Sandurski concluded, hoping to provide “a bit in it for everyone”.
As both teams look to stabilise their top orders, which have shown vulnerabilities in the earlier matches of the series, the iconic venue is set for what could be a defining encounter in the on-going series.
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