The encounter between the pair was one of the fascinating duels during the epic 2020-21 series in Australia which India famously won at the Gabba. Ashwin removed Labuschagne twice in six innings before Ashwin missed the deciding Test, even as the head-to-head ended respectably.
This will be Labuschagne’s first Test tour of India – he made his ODI debut in early 2020 – and he has been planning for a long time about how he will tackle Ashwin, who will be a key figure in the four-match series. take shape, which begins in Nagpur. February 9th.
“Since then [the last series] I have already started thinking,” Labuschagne said. “I have made some changes in my game because of what I have heard about Ashwin and the way he bowls to me. I’ve adapted my game to thwart some of his ideas and methods, so it’s going to be a lovely game of chess and I can’t wait for it.”
Labuschagne is currently on BBL duty with the Brisbane Heat following the conclusion of the Test series against South Africa. Australia are due to have a brief training camp in Sydney in late January and will reach India just seven days before the opening Test.
He said, “People think, now it is the Big Bash, so you start thinking, but thinking goes a long way.” “You start processing everything in your head, you go through every scenario of which bowler you are going to face. I have already thought about my plans, so now it is just about executing. is about… piece the puzzle together and make sure the puzzle is ready.” when it’s game time. That’s the key, and that’s how all the preparation goes.”
“We’re always talking about that game and what’s to come and how we’re going to go about it,” Labuschagne said. “Think the important part is that once we get there, we’ve already gone through all the scenarios and that’s where their experience and a lot of the other person’s experience will be very helpful.”
The series in India begins Australia’s quest for three major Test prizes overseas with a possible World Test Championship final in June – probably against India – before the Ashes.
“I can’t wait, very excited for the next 10 Tests,” Labushen said. “We have played really well, people know we are very good at home, very difficult to beat… but the challenge we have in front of us in two consecutive series, it is going to be great. I am looking forward to the challenge against Can’t spin in India and can’t wait for the Bezball vs Ronball challenge.”
