Bangalore: Michael Hussey is Australia’s star middle order batsman. Though he failed to sparkle in the Mohali Test, he has time and again steered Australia to victory. After a hard work out at the Chinnaswamy stadium, Hussey spoke about his form, team’s chance to equal the series and the fitness level of his teammates.
How is the mood in the Australian camp after the Mohali defeat?
We had an optional nets session today. The boys are in good spirits. Some of the guys, particularly the fast bowlers, are trying to recover after a tough match in Mohali. The focus is on recovery, but we have to keep our skills in good shape as well.
What about Doug Bollinger?
Bollinger went for a scan yesterday. It looks like a minor strain. We’re hopeful he’s going to be fine. We will see how he bowls at the nets tomorrow.
What kind of work ethic do you think is required to recover in the series?
We’re trying to get into to the Bangalore conditions. The nets are good here and the facilities are always good at this venue. It’s nice to get a good long hit and ensure that the basics of the game are in good shape. We will try to get used to the nature of the pitch here.
So do you consider this Test match the biggest test for the Ashes series?
Every Test match is big. Yes, it’s the last Test before the Ashes. But we’re not thinking about it at this stage. We’re one nil down in the series against India, in India. We have to win this Test and level the series. That is the focus at this moment - to play good, disciplined Test cricket for a long period of time. If we play with the same intensity that we did in Mohali, we have a good chance of leveling the series.
Are you worried about your form?
I feel good about my game. I got some good starts, but couldn’t go on with it, but I know if I stick to my basics, a big score is just around the corner. I am determined to do well in the next match.
Why is India a tough opponent?
They have got some seasoned professionals in their batting order. All their players have been around for a long time. They know how to handle pressure and how to handle every situation and have done it many times before. Even their bowling attack has Harbhajan (Singh) who has played a lot of Test cricket; Zaheer Khan too has lots of experience. They know the conditions well and how to use it to their benefit.
How disappointed are you about losing the Mohali Test?
I’m happy to have been part of something special, but am disappointed with the result. We have played some amazing Tests over the years, and being on the winning side makes a hell lot of a difference. In Adelaide against England, we were on the winning side and it was an amazing feeling. After the (Mohali) Test match, the dressing room was very quiet but we were proud of giving such a good performance.
