Matthew Hayden - 'India surprised us'

Matthew Hayden, who scored 99 in the second innings of the drawn test at Brisbane, admits that his team was surprised by India's combative performance.

His comments to Sky Sports came after India dominated Australia for much of the rain-interrupted match, first through their bowlers and then the batsmen. India took a first-innings lead over Australia before the game ended in an exciting draw.

"Considering there was a lot of weather as well and it was an interrupted Test match, I think they fought particularly well," Hayden said. "They have always been a good side, and they probably did take us by surprise a little bit. Not so much in their fighting characteristics, but just this was a wicket which was really going to suit Australia."

India's steadily-improving overseas performance did not escape his attention: "Not only are they proving to be good players within their own country, but they are now starting to play a little bit better outside India. I have no doubt about that."

After India's performance, Hayden was optimistic about the series ahead. "It really is set up for a very exciting summer, and I think Australia now have a really big challenge ahead."