After a huge couple of weeks it is back into action when the first ball is bowled at the Adelaide Oval tomorrow morning. Since the final day in Hobart, life has been unbelievable for yours truly. Two winning Test matches, two centuries and so much public support it has been overwhelming. It has been a dream come true, a dream I am looking forward to continue living for as long as I possibly can.

While life has been hectic and we have all had some success over the last month, the past counts for nothing when our series with the talented Indian cricket team kicks off at 11am. The Indians are something of an unknown quantity because most of us have had little-to-no Test cricket battle time with our new opponents. Only two of this Indian squad has toured Australia in the past so our preparation has been a little less thorough than it is for other teams.

In the one-day arena our countries have met on numerous occasions, leaving us with memories of limited-over techniques and temperaments rather than a detailed analysis of their Test cricket strengths and weaknesses. Obviously the great Sachin Tendulkar will be a key player in this three-Test contest but we will also target the gifted Ganguly, Dravid and Ramesh when we have the ball in our hands. In the bowling department Srinath, Presad and Kumble are top-class performers who are sure to keep the top order on our toes.

There is no better place to play Test cricket than the Adelaide Oval. From the beautifully picturesque ground where the cathedral overlooks the proceedings, to the manicured green outfield and perfect playing surface, the Adelaide Oval is favourite to many past and present players. There is always a special atmosphere about this match, which makes it one of the most memorable and enjoyable Tests in the calender year. Curator Les Burdett deserves all the credit and accolades that come his way as his ground is the perfect setting for any game of cricket, particularly the annual Test match in Adelaide.

At training this morning there was a special feeling within the team. The recent series against Pakistan has been a huge confidence booster for everyone involved and while there is still room for improvement we are looking to continue providing the Australian public with plenty to cheer about. The battle of Warney and Sachin promises to be a beauty but I must admit I can't wait to see the little Indian master lock horns with Glenn McGrath who is the best fast bowler currently playing the game. This duel could be one of the defining contests of this exciting Test match series against our largely untested opponents.

From Adelaide, JL