AUS vs IND: Matthew Hayden gives crucial ‘Gabba advice’ to Indian pacers

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden has shared valuable insights on how the Indian pacers can exploit the challenging conditions of the iconic Gabba to challenge Australia in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With the series locked at 1-1 after Australia’s dominant win in Adelaide, the upcoming Test is expected to be crucial, and Hayden explained how to dismiss the Australian batters at the Gabba.

Speaking to Star Sports, the 53-year-old left-hander emphasised the importance of precision for India’s fast bowlers. “India, when they do get a chance to bowl, they need to rely on hovering in that fourth, fifth stump line a bit more. And most importantly, they need to use their bounce,” Hayden told Star Sports.

The Gabba pitch is known for its extra bounce, and Hayden pointed out that the Indian pacers should capitalise on this natural feature to challenge Australian batters. He also noted that while the red ball would be more familiar to both teams in a traditional Test setting, the pink ball used in the second Test had given Australia a distinct advantage. “It’s a key arsenal as part of a fast bowling unit in Brisbane. The red ball will definitely be more familiar in terms of Test match cricket. Australia have the running with the pink ball, they won so much with it.”

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The former opener also provided some crucial advice for the Indian batting unit, stressing the need for resilience in difficult conditions. “India must bat better, they must bat for time. They must bat a day of Test match cricket. Under a day, unacceptable. Has to be in that 350 zone,” Hayden said, highlighting the importance of occupying the crease for long periods.

As the series heads to Brisbane, memories of India’s historic victory at the Gabba in 2021 remain fresh. In a match that many regard as one of the greatest Test wins in Indian cricket history, the visitors triumphed by three wickets, clinching a memorable 2-1 series win and breaking Australia’s unbeaten record at the venue.

Reflecting on that victory, Hayden acknowledged that while it is a “home game” for Australia, the Gabba remains a ground where India has fond memories. “Brisbane, different ball game! It’s a home game, but it’s actually a very good game for India as well because they’ve got memories of the last time they encountered Australia in the BGT,” Hayden said.