Aussies may play only one spinner

While India will surely play both Kumble and Harbhajan, the Aussies will in all probability play only one spinner as they will play to their strengths by picking three pacemen, writes Allan Border.

The 'Clash of the Titans' commences on Wednesday. It's been an eagerly anticipated series, and a feast of cricket is in store for cricket-lovers. 'India versus Australia' in recent times has been like a bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier; no inch given, nor asked for. The cricket between the two nations has been of the highest quality. This time, the combatants will again go hammer-and-tongs at each other. The players in the thick of the action will be watched by enthusiastic spectators, and a massive TV audience. One can't wait for the first ball.

Bangalore is a great starting-point for the series. Traditionally, the Bangalore wicket has favoured good cricket, in that it has something in it for the spinners, pacemen and batsmen. The ball will get to the keeper pretty fast in the early stages, and the spinners will get more and more help as the game progresses and the wicket ages.

While India will surely play both Kumble and Harbhajan, the Aussies will in all probability play only one spinner in Warne. I suppose they will play to their strengths in the first Test by picking three pacemen in McGrath, Lee and Gillespie, and call upon Lehmann or Clarke to support Warne in the spin department. They will follow the proven formula at Bangalore, and revise their strategies after the first Test.

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