Aussies want to beat India 'legitimately'

Australia want to win the four-Test series against India with a "tag of legitimacy" by taking on a full strength Indian side that has Sachin Tendulkar in it.

The Australians want to win the four-Test series against India with a "tag of legitimacy" by taking on a full strength Indian side that has Sachin Tendulkar in it.

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Australian captain Adam Gilchrist said he "suspects" Tendulkar to play in the series-opening Test, beginning on Wednesday, and his players also wanted that as they were keen to win legitimately.

"I think he (Tendulkar) will be there (for the first Test). Obviously, everyone would love to see him. He is an element that you want to play the best. He is the best batsman that I think I have ever seen. So, if we are going to win here (India) legitimately, it's nice to play the best team possible," Gilchrist said.

The national selectors have included Tendulkar in the 15-member squad for the first two Tests but his featuring in the playing XI would depend on his match fitness.

"I suspect Sachin is going to play. So, wait and see whether he plays or not. But even if India does not have him, we know as well as any team around the world, the quality of other players. So, we won't take them lightly," Gilchrist told reporters at a promotional event for Castrol.