It is said that adversity often brings out the best in champions. And, whatever has transpired in Australia over the last week has been nothing short of terrible, in every respect. The death of Phil Hughes at 25, and that too on the cricket field, has affected the Australians deeply, and this is precisely why a decision has been made to delay the first Test, which was earlier scheduled to begin on December 4 at Gabba, Brisbane. But now, with Hughes funeral to be held on December 3, it will be impossible for the players to step out on the field a day later. While Australia would undoubtedly be feeling most pain, Team India also are reeling under an emotional baggage, since Hughes was, after all, one of their own.
The passing away of Hughes just days before the Test series was scheduled to begin has now given a whole new dimension and character to the series. As it is, Australia were favourites to clinch the four-match series 4-0. Glenn McGrath has already predicted the same. But now, Australia would be expected to win it as a tribute to Hughes. The players would themselves feel that they owe it to Hughes, to go out there and win everything on offer. This would make the task even tougher for India, as they look to try and gain some respect in a country where they faltered embarrassingly three years back. Can they rise to the challenge this time is the big question.
While, on one hand, Australia would be keen to leave their indelible mark of competence on the series, on the other hand, it is the harsh truth that it would be an extremely difficult job. The players would have to focus on the job on hand, and no matter how hard they try, the Hughes factor will be playing at the back of their minds. Every time a bouncer is bowled their mind may waver to the tragic dismissal of Hughes. How they deal with the situation out in the middle will actually determine how they perform in the series. The Tests will also reveal the character of the players under pressure. Whether they inspire themselves on, or wither under pressure.
For India too, this will be a challenge of a different kind. The fans would hope they can finally come up with a performance away from home that they can cherish. MS Dhoni and co might point towards the Lord's triumph in England, but that was just a flash in the pan as they lost the next three Tests in a row. The last three years have been terrible for Indian cricket as far as away tours are concerned. And now, the circumstances of Hughes' death has only complicated matters for them, which would make it tougher for them to concentrate, which anyways isn't their strong point. How they respond to the situation remains to be seen.
The series will be a challenge to both teams in many ways, leave alone the eventual result. The New Zealanders paid their tribute by not bowling any bouncers and muting their celebrations in the final Test against Pakistan. What do Australia and India do? If they don't bowl any bouncers, it will take out the competitive edge from the series. Further, not indulging in celebrations would also take out a lot of excitement. But, if they do, it would seem rather bizarre to the players themselves after all that they have gone through. These are tough times for everyone involved with cricket, especially those playing the game. Only time can heal the wounds.
--By A Cricket Analyst
