Watson wants Sydney-like Tests minus scandal

"The rivalry between India and Australia has become so intense in recent years. It has become the biggest challenge for Australian cricketers to play and win a series against India. It was amazing for a Test match to be decided in the last 20 minutes of the fifth day," he said referring to the Sydney Test earlier this year though without mentioning it by name.

Indian lower order batsmen had failed to negotiate Australian bowlers in the last 30 minutes of the second Test which was remembered more for the monkey-gate scandal than for the on-field intensity.

"I hope this series will have intense competitions like that which go down the wire," he said. Asked why the Australians, known for playing mind games before important series, has been quite and calm in the build up to the India tour, Watson said it was not a conscious strategy.

Watson would not pass judgement whether their rivalry with India has surpassed the Ashes, saying the two competitions are played on totally different conditions.

"The rivalry with India has become really big but both this and the Ashes are different challenges. The English conditions are totally different while the pitches in India are slow and low and conditions are really demanding for a cricketer."

The 27-year all-rounder has not played any Test in India but considers himself fortunate to have featured in the inaugural Indian Premier League where he was the man-of-the-series.

"I am not fortunate enough till now to play a Test in India though I hope I will play this time. But I am fortunate to have played in the IPL. I have played some Cricket in different Test grounds in India during the IPL and that should give me confidence," he said.

... contd.