Spinners will play major role on Day 5: Joe Burns

Sydney: His swashbuckling 66 helped Australia amass a massive 348-run lead on the fourth day of the final cricket Test and young batsman Joe Burns feels the spinners will play a major role on a fifth day pitch as the hosts go for an outright win against India here on Day 5.

Burns hit 66 runs off 39 balls, studded with eight fours and three sixes as Australia finished at 251/6 on day four after bowling India out for 475 in their first innings to take a 97-run lead.

“The wicket is spinning and it will only get harder to bat on as the game goes on. We will come out tomorrow and I am sure we will create 10 opportunities. It is just a matter of taking all ten with the spin in the wicket and it will play a major factor. We saw some variable bounce and reverse swing, but spin will play a major part,” Burns said.

The question for the final day will be how much Australia leave for India to get and in how many overs.

“I am not too sure about the declaration. I am only a second gamer and I don't get too much say in those decisions.  We will leave that up to the skipper,” Burns said.

The 25-year-old batsman, who scored half-centuries in both the innings, said it was very satisfying to contribute and put the team in a comfortable position.

“Playing like that was a lot of fun with Brad Haddin. It was just nice to contribute to the team and get us in a good position. It is a massive opportunity to come out and win a Test match for Australia tomorrow and that is a position you want to be contributing to the team,” Burns said.

“It is pleasing to get a fifty in both innings but I want to come back tomorrow and win the Test match for Australia,” said Burns.”