It will be lovely game of chess: Marnus Labuschagne on his battle with R Ashwin

R Ashwin will hold the key for India [Source: Associated Press]

Star Australian batter, Marnus Labuschagne is geared up for his upcoming battle against R Ashwin in the Border-Gavaskar series, stating that it's going to be a lovely game of chess against the ace spinner.

Australia have not won a Test series in India since 2004, and will be looking to change the course of history when the two sides collide in a 4-match Test series, starting from February 9.

The numero uno batter was dismissed twice by Ashwin during the 2020-21 Border Gavaskar series, even though he emerged as the leading run-scorer with 426 runs, at an average of 53.25.

Labuschagne geared up

"I've changed some of my game because of what I've heard about Ashwin and how he bowled to me," Labuschagne was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

"I've adapted my game to try and foil a few of his ideas and ways he goes about it. It's going to be a lovely game of chess and I can't wait for it."

The middle-order batter stated that the preparation for the upcoming India series started right after the 2020-21 home series.

"The preparation starts so far back. People think, right now it's Big Bash then you start thinking - but the thinking happens way ahead. You start processing everything in your mind, you go through every scenario of what bowler you are going to come across."

The Aussies will have a short training camp for the series preparation in January end, and the team will arrive in India one week before the first Test commences.

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