Debasis Sen: Former Australian cricketer Michael Hussey believes the Indian team will have to play out of their skins to repeat the performance they had in the last series Down Under. Virat and his boys became the first Asian side to beat Australia in a Test series in their own backyard. In an exclusive chat with Xtra Time from his residence in Sydney, Hussey spoke about the much anticipated series later this year.

Series: Really looking forward to the series between India and Australia later this year. It should be an absolute beauty as two top quality teams will go against each other. India will have the confidence knowing that they won the series last time here.

Steve-Warner factor: Australia will start as favorites with Steve (Smith) and Warner back in the team. They were not in the last series and both will be massive additions for the Australian team. Plus Australia was blooding some younger players –the likes of Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head in the last series. They were just getting their feet in international cricket, They have now really grown in stature gaining experience and that will help the home team in a big way.

Bowling attacks: The Australian attack looks really strong on paper. As long they are all fit they will pose a serious threat to Indian batting. Having the likes of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazzlewood, James Pattinson backed up well with the spin of Nathan Lyon. On the other hand the Indian attack too looks very good. The likes of Bumrah, Ishant and Shami will be not pushovers. They have a high quality bowling attack.

Indian batting: I am sure India once again will be well led by Virat Kohli and a strong batting line up. I think the Australians will have a lot of work to do with Pujara as the last time he proved to be a real thorn in the flesh. He had such an outstanding series as he blunted the Australian attack by keeping them long on the field. It will be good to get him out cheaply. The rest of Indian team still looks very strong.

Key to win series: The sides that can handle the external distractions will come out on top. The two teams will have to adjust with not having crowds, having to isolate, having to adhere to some very strict regulations.