NEW DELHI: The third Test pitch between India and Australia at the Gabba is anticipated to maintain its characteristic pace and bounce, as the match is scheduled for the early summer period rather than after Christmas.
India's previous triumph at the Gabba occurred during the latter half of their last tour series. Rishabh Pant's remarkable performance secured India consecutive series victories in Australia, dealing a significant blow to the hosts. It marked Australia's first defeat at this venue since 1988.
Subsequently, Australia suffered a loss to the West Indies at their previously impregnable ground, explaining why players now prefer early summer fixtures at the Gabba rather than late-season matches.
"Different times of year definitely makes it different, it can be a slightly different pitch," Gabba curator David Sandurski was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au ahead of the third Test beginning Saturday.
"Pitches later in the season might have a bit more wear and tear while ones early in the season usually are a bit fresher and might have a bit more in them.
"Generally speaking, we still prepare the pitch the exact same way every time to try and get the same good carry, pace and bounce that the Gabba is known for. We are just trying to make a traditional Gabba wicket like we do each year," he said.
The current five-match series stands level at 1-1 after Australia's decisive victory in the Adelaide pink-ball Test.
The curator indicated that the upcoming surface would resemble the recent Sheffield Shield pink-ball match between Victoria and Queensland last month where fifteen wickets fell on day one.
"The aim is to be similar to that wicket where there was a good balance between bat and ball. Hopefully there is a bit in it for everyone," Sandurski added.
