Time for a run-fest?

A run-fest is on the cards in the second Test between Australia and India, which starts on Friday at the Adelaide Oval. According to Les Burdett, the curator, the pitch for the Test is one of the best he has prepared in his 35-Test career.

"I've seen some pretty good pitches out there, and this one I'd rate right with the top of them," said Burdett. "It's got a very consistent grass cover, it has rolled out exceptionally flat, there are no waves in it, it's very consistent down the middle. I think the pitch won't be responsible for a batsman's dismissal and I think it's going to have good consistent carry, which is what batsmen and bowlers want."

The Adelaide Oval has the reputation for being the best batting pitch in Australia, but 11 of the last 12 Tests there have ended in a definite result - Australia have won seven of the last eight, the exception being a draw against South Africa in 1997-98.

Meanwhile, there was a likelihood of the weather intervening in this match as well. The forecast predicts showers on Friday, but the skies are expected to clear up over the weekend.