Don't knock our first-class experience - Hussey

Michael Hussey has backed a new-look Australia to build on their series victory in 2004 - the first time they won in India for 35 years - and create their own history in the upcoming four-Test contest. Hussey also warned India not to underestimate an inexperienced touring side and credited Australia's domestic competitions as a platform for success.

"I think we will take a lot of things out of 2004 but the personnel is so different that we are sort of a new team, trying to create our own history," Hussey said in Jaipur. "We have lost so many great players from that series. We are new and fresh and want to put our own stamp on things."

Australia's touring squad includes only four players - Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Simon Katich and Michael Clarke - who have played Tests in India. Anil Kumble, India's captain, has said that India have a good chance of beating Australia due to their vast experience, but Hussey warned against any such theories.

"I don't think age is any barrier,'' he said. "The big strength we have is the Indians might think we're inexperienced, and perhaps in Test cricket in this country we are, but the guys that have come in have played a lot of first-class cricket for their states. I think it would be a bit of a mistake to underestimate the newer, more inexperienced guys in our team.

"We have a very, very strong first-class system, so anyone who comes in is going to have to have put some good performances on the board and really deserve their chance. I think they're very seasoned, hardened cricketers, and it's a case of how quickly we can adapt to the conditions.''

Hussey said preparations were well in place ahead of the Test series, which begins in Bangalore on October 9. Australia are currently in Jaipur, where they play a tour match against the Rajasthan Cricket Association's Centre of Excellence on September 27-28.

"Everyone should be preparing as though they're going to play and there's going to be some unlucky guys who miss out," Hussey said. "Everyone can consider themselves a very good chance of playing, which is very healthy.''