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Bounce barrage set to continue in SCG Test

3 minute read

Australia captain Tim Paine says the bouncer is how teams 'test what you're made of' and he expects plenty more from both sides in the current Test series.

TIM PAINE.
TIM PAINE. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

The bouncer barrage directed at India's tailenders will continue during the third Test at the SCG, where Australia expect to cop plenty of short stuff in reply.

Bouncers, and cricket's rarely enforced rule regarding dangerous intimidatory fast bowling, have proven hot topics during India's current tour.

Paceman Mohammed Shami broke his arm while batting at Adelaide Oval, having been struck by a brutal delivery from Pat Cummins.

The way India targeted NSW quick Harry Conway, who was struck on the helmet while batting and later diagnosed with concussion in a tour game, also made headlines.

Former captain Ian Chappell has called on umpires to do more to protect "hopeless" tailenders who are targeted by bumpers.

"Playing the short ball at that pace is uncomfortable. If you're someone who is perceived to have a weakness in that area, or even if you're not, it's part of the game," Australia captain Tim Paine said.

"It's how teams test your mettle, test what you're made of.

"It's a tactic we use pretty consistently, particularly to the lower order ... we expect to get plenty back as well."

Paine added the unspoken pact between fast bowlers to not bounce each other was well and truly over.

"They love peppering each other these days," the wicketkeeper said.

"Lower-order batsmen are getting better and better as well.

"It's a tactic that's already in the minds of batsmen when they come to Australia ... they know it's coming. We know it's coming."

Paine noted there was nothing surprising about the way Starc targeted Ravindra Jadeja in his first game since suffering a concussion.

Will Pucovski can expect similar treatment after recovering from his latest head knock.

"Will has been hit in the head a few times but he plays the short ball really well," Paine said.

"As long as he's comfortable, we're comfortable.

"So far he's indicated that he's good to go and it's not a concern."

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