The contest between the pair was considered one of the fascinating duels throughout the epic 2020-21 sequence in Australia which India famously gained at the Gabba. Ashwin eliminated Labuschagne twice in six innings with honours ending about even in the head-to-head earlier than Ashwin missed the deciding Test.
This shall be Labuschagne’s first Test tour of India – he made his ODI debut there in early 2020 – and he has lengthy been planning about how he’ll tackle Ashwin who shapes as a pivotal determine in the four-match sequence which begins in Nagpur on February 9.
“Since then [the last series] I’ve already started thinking,” Labuschagne mentioned. “I’ve changed some of my game because of what I’ve heard about Ashwin and how he bowled to me. I’ve adapted my game to try and foil a few of his ideas and ways he goes about it, so it’s going to be a lovely game of chess and I can’t wait for it.”
Labuschagne is at present on BBL responsibility with Brisbane Heat following the conclusion of the Test sequence in opposition to South Africa. Australia are due to have a quick coaching camp in Sydney in direction of the finish of January and can arrive in India simply seven days earlier than the opening Test.
“People think, right now it’s Big Bash then you start thinking, but the thinking happens way ahead,” he mentioned. “You start processing everything in your mind, you go through every scenario of what bowler you are going to come across. I’ve already thought about my plans so now it’s just about executing…piece the puzzle together and make sure the puzzle is ready when it’s game time. That’s the key, and that’s how all preparation happens.”
“We’re always talking about that game and what’s to come and how we’re going to go about it,” Labuschagne mentioned. “Think the important part is that once we get there, we’ve already gone through all the scenarios and that’s where his experience and a lot of the other guy’s experience will become very helpful.”
The sequence in India begins Australia’s quest for 3 main Test prizes abroad with a possible World Test Championship remaining in June – most likely in opposition to India once more – forward of the Ashes.
“Can’t wait, so excited for the next 10 Test matches,” Labuschagne mentioned. “We’ve played really well, people know we are very good at home, very tough to beat…but the challenge we have going two away series in a row, that’s going to be awesome. I can’t wait for the challenge against spin in India and can’t wait for the challenge of Bazball verses Ronball.”