The test arena is sure to put a lot of teams to test this year. The following 12 months offer extraordinary cricket to be played all around the world. Beginning with the intense India-Australia battle, the game moves to South Africa, New Zealand, Dubai, Sri Lanka, England and the list goes on.
What to expect from 2012: Test Cricket
England ended 2011 as the No. 1 test team while Sangakkara and Steyn were the No. 1 batsman and bowler respectively. A lot of promising young talent was spotted which will be put to test in the quest to dethrone the above mentioned in the following series:
India vs Australia (January)
With 3 tests remaining, the series offers a combination of young, fast bowlers from both sides with a promise to perform and experienced batsmen possibly playing for the last time against each other on Oz soil. Owing to their impeccable consistency and patience, the first test saw the fairly young Australian pace attack rattling the Indian defenses on numerous occasions. It will be interesting to see how the Indians cope up in the following tests, which may offer batsmen-friendly conditions. Also, the focus will be on the master’s much awaited 100th ton.
South Africa vs Sri Lanka Final Test (January)
So far it has been South African Pace 1 Lankan Spin 1; the final test at Cape Town is surely going to be a beautiful sight, both inside and around the picturesque venue. The Lankans, still high from their maiden Test win on South African soil, will offer a tough challenge to the Proteas with their key players in form.
Pakistan vs England (January – February)
The inclusion of Monty Panesar might prove to be an important change in the 3-test series in Dubai. England will look to confirm their grip on the No.1 spot while Pakistan will have a few questions to ask of them.
New Zealand vs Zimbabwe Only Test (January)
The domestic season in Zimbabwe might have re-ignited the nation’s interest in the sport but they will want to make it big once again on the International Circuit.
New Zealand vs South Africa (March)
This 3 test series will be one to look out for with young talents like Doug Bracewell and Marchant de Lange on display. With New Zealand in form and South Africa just off from their home series against Sri Lanka, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top.
Sri Lanka vs England (March)
It’s going to be a competition between the spin tanks of both sides. English players will have to adjust to the conditions before the Lankans bag the two matches, something they are capable of doing on their home soil.
West Indies vs Australia (April)
Without a series win against a strong pack in a long while, the Windies will be looking to better their record, when at home this time around. It’s going to be a strong test for them even though the Aussies are yet to find the right batting talent which would follow the ageing greats.
England vs West Indies (May)
The last series on home turf, England whitewashed India 4-0. The No. 1 test team would like to continue with that form when they welcome the West Indies side. It will be interesting to see if Sammy and co. can pull off an upset.
England vs South Africa (August)
The scorecards of the 2009/10 series in South Africa still suggest that it was one of the best test series played in recent times. The teams would be looking forward to create the same kind of magic, this time in England. Both the squads with promising talent and good balance make for an exciting tour (comprising of 3 tests).
India vs Sri Lanka (July – August)
The neighbors fight it out in Sri Lanka for dominance over the sub-continental region. Ajantha Mendis played spoil sport in the past for India, they will be itching to even things out.
New Zealand vs India (August – September)
Facing the Indians on home soil has been the toughest challenge to teams in the past; it will be no different for the Kiwis who will have to put on their best show to beat the Champions at home.
England vs India (November – December)
The word’s Revenge. The humiliating 4-0 defeat will be on the back of their minds when the Indians host England towards the end of the year. English spinners will look to exploit the friendly conditions while it will be a batting paradise for the batsmen as is expected from most Indian pitches.
Tags: 2012, Australia, Cricket, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Test Cricket
