'Traditional' fare in prospect on Gabba green top

BRISBANE: After the defeat at the Adelaide Oval, the Indian team won't mind making its way to the Gabba because as soon as they step foot on the ground, pleasant memories of their last trip here when they had become the first side to beat the hosts at the venue since 1988 will come rushing to them.

- Ashish Magotra

The disconcerting bounce at the Gabba never makes things easy for batting, for India were inspired by the young pair of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant to an unforgettable win. While they get inspired, the team will also have to recognise the role momentum may play in the third Test which begins on Saturday.

Poor weather around Brisbane has meant that one isn't quite sure of the state of the pitch but the fresher wicket due to a pre-Christmas start should make the Aussies happy.

"Different times of the year definitely makes it different; it can be a slightly different pitch," Gabba curator David Sandursk said on Wednesday.

"Pitches later in the season might have a bit more wear and tear while ones early in the season usually are a bit fresher and might have a bit more in them.