What are they all doing here when there are bargains to be plundered? © Getty Images

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Watching Matthew Hayden and Phil Jaques is great but it’s even more fun chatting with Australians. This writer has been shocked ever since setting foot in Australia. Hadn’t this been the country that intimidated visitors? The land where foreign teams were given a hostile reception? A few Australians have found it strange too but seem to have an explanation. Firstly India aren’t starting their tour in Brisbane, a city where most tours begin and one whose media is given to a fiery approach. Secondly there’s been a change of government. It’s supposed to matter. Thirdly Melbourne is a city with a large Asian community, one that allows teams from the subcontinent to adapt quickly. And to add to it, Damien Fleming, the former Australian and Victorian swing bowler, thought it was an “Indian” pitch. Merry Christmas.

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It’s always interesting to observe the crowd on the first day of the series. Lahore in 2006 was loud, Antigua was more carnival, and Lord’s, earlier this year, was as quiet as a church. Melbourne was tough to describe but vibrant is probably the word. There was fancy dress, beer (lots of it) and sunshine. There were Mexican waves (which are actually banned), streakers (banned again) and lots of cheering for the visiting side (not banned but strange). Many, it seems, came here craving for a contest and went back in good cheer. Neville Cardus is supposed to have hoped for Victor Trumper doing well in an Australian defeat. Many in the crowd might have had a similar sentiment here.

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