Cricket

The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy is just around the corner, and excitement is building for the clash between India and Australia. Despite some injury concerns, former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey believes India will put up a strong fight in the five-match series.Hussey acknowledges that India has a history of success in Australia, having won the last two BGTs Down Under. However, he believes the Australian players are eager to prove themselves and level the playing field. He emphasizes the high quality of cricket expected in the series, which has become one of the most sought-after events in the cricket calendar.Hussey highlights the importance of the series for Australian players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon, who may see it as their last opportunity to beat India in Australia. He also praises the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as India's new head coach, noting his competitive spirit and ability to instill a winning mentality in his teams.Despite some unsettledness in the Indian camp, Hussey believes the team has the depth and talent to overcome adversity. He dismisses the notion that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are finished, emphasizing their legendary status and ability to perform under pressure.The series is also set to feature a battle between two modern-day great off-spinners, R Ashwin and Nathan Lyon. Hussey expects both bowlers to play crucial roles for their respective teams, with Lyon's ability to bowl both offensively and defensively being particularly valuable.Hussey acknowledges that India's recent struggles against spin could be a factor, but he believes Lyon will need to bowl well in Australian conditions to be effective. He also emphasizes the importance of a group mentality for both teams, with India needing to rely on more than just Jasprit Bumrah to succeed.Hussey believes that the IPL has helped foster friendships between Indian and Australian players, but he stresses that once the game starts, it's all about national pride and competition. He advises KL Rahul to trust his game and focus on his preparation, as he is one of the best players in the world when he's at his best.Overall, Hussey is optimistic about the upcoming series, predicting high-quality cricket and a fascinating battle between two great teams.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in his final IPL season, according to Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey. Dhoni, who recently stepped down as CSK captain, is batting at an unprecedented strike rate of 255.88, showcasing his explosive form.Hussey believes that Dhoni's current state of mind is contributing to his exceptional performance. "He's just in a wonderful place in his career," Hussey said. "He's comfortable, happy, and enjoying his cricket."Despite facing different bowling strategies designed to counter his finishing prowess, Dhoni continues to evolve and improve. "He'll continue to evolve and make himself better," Hussey said. "He's making it harder for bowlers to bowl to him."Hussey also expressed confidence in Rachin Ravindra, a young Kiwi batsman who has faced some recent setbacks. "He's going well," Hussey said. "He's just one inning closer to that big score."Ahead of CSK's home match against Lucknow Super Giants, Hussey emphasized the importance of moving the ball quickly and dismissing key batsmen like KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock early on. "Rahul has been a fantastic player for a long time," Hussey said. "He's very difficult to bowl to."While CSK will play three consecutive home games, Hussey is taking a cautious approach. "Wins are important at any time of the tournament," he said. "But it's dangerous to think too far ahead."