"Great day for the game, and glad they're not playing in my fog-bound Manchester. This should be fascinating. I think India are under the greater pressure here, as hosts with all the expectations that come with that. Australia are just so ridiculously talented that it's hard to see them falling over again like they did against Pakistan, but this world cup seems to have reversed the periods where batting is easier, so it's really close to call."
"Key for both teams today will be the opening pair getting things off to a good start. None of the four openers in today's game have racked up the kind of score they would have liked to have so far this tournament. They will be looking to create a strong platform rather than relying on relying on the middle order or the tail to save the day for them."
Teams are on the field and national anthems are underway with the first ball imminent. Spectators and correspondents express anticipation and relief at favorable weather. India face greater pressure as hosts with high expectations, while Australia possess abundant talent despite a recent lapse versus Pakistan. Batting conditions appear to have shifted, increasing uncertainty about outcomes. Both teams need strong starts from their opening pairs; none of the four openers have delivered substantial scores in the tournament so far. Australia have made one change, bringing Molineux in for Wareham, while India remain unchanged from their South Africa loss.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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