I haven’t seen a stronger Indian team than this one: Kim Hughes

Former Australian skipper Kim Hughes feels that the current Indian side led by Virat Kohli is a more balanced and stronger unit, the team has seen in the past. He said that Virat has been leading the side exceptionally well in the recent times which would pose a huge challenge for the Steve Smith led Australia once they visit India for a four-match Test series which begins on February 23 in Pune.

“I haven’t seen a stronger Indian team than this one. I watched the India vs England series on TV and I think Virat Kohli did an inspirational job as captain and his batting was absolutely sublime,” Hughes was quoted as saying by mid-day. Besides praising Virat Kohli, Hughes also heaped praises on the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja and said that they have the capability to rattle any top batting line-up especially in home conditions.

“India have a very balanced team. They have the best batting side in the world; they’ve got depth in pace and spin bowling and R Ashwin is in a different league altogether. His ability is breathtaking and Ravindra Jadeja does a great job in keeping it tight. Plus, they are a good fielding unit,” Hughes added.

Hughes expressed his concern on the Australian side which is packed with as many as 7 left-handers. Ashwin who has been on a record-breaking spree off late will definitely keep this thing in mind and look to come all guns blazing once the Test series unfolds in late February. “You can bat in the nets, but that’s not the same as playing a side game and the tour could be over even before it’s begun. We have six to seven left-handers and that will create an issue with Ashwin coming around the wicket and bowling into the rough,” he said.

Also read: Mark Butcher feels Virat Kohli doesn’t have a weakness in his batting

Meanwhile, Hughes was optimistic of the fact that Mitchell Swepson would shrug of his exceptional bowling display in the BBL and replicate the same in his debut tour in India. “Swepson turns it, but he’s not going to get too many games. The Indians play spin very well and they’ll get after Glenn Maxwell and Nathan Lyon,” Hughes said.

Hughes felt that Australia could end up losing 4-0 if they don’t get good starts but eventually it will be a learning curve for the youngsters who will be touring India for the very first time. “You are on a hiding to nothing and could lose all four Tests if you don’t get off to a good start,” Hughes concluded.