Adelaide, Feb 11: The Australians have dominated India so far but spinner Xavier Doherty today said his team would have to be on guard as the resurgent visitors might hit back strongly when the two teams clash for the second time in the ODI cricket tri-series here tomorrow.
India put up a decent bowling effort in Melbourne against Australia before losing the match but managed to defeat Sri Lanka in the second match.
“India will be pretty chuffed with themselves after Melbourne. They have a very solid batting and quite a few key players in their line-up,” said Doherty, who took two for 24 in Friday's thrilling five-run win over Sri Lanka at WACA.
Doherty is mindful though that the pitch at Adelaide Oval usually helps spinners and he could be a key performer for his side tomorrow.
“It's a great place to bowl. There is enough in these wickets to help spin, besides being the most beautiful ground in the world.”
The pitch at WACA was helpful too to Doherty who probably helped Australia cross the line last night. “I loved the extra bounce which WACA produces. It was of particular advantage.”
Australia struggled to make 231 and barely managed to keep Sri Lanka away from the required target.
“We did drop our guards down. It put them on a bit of roll but we are pretty happy to take points. Angelo (Matthews) had done so before in a similar sort of situation 12-14 months ago. With 231 on the total, you are not going to win every game.”
