Mumbai: Their focus on the number one spot up for grabs in the upcoming ODI series against India, Australian captain George Bailey and coach Steve Rixon said the visitors are no longer intimidated by the sub-continental conditions courtesy the exposure they have got through the IPL here.
The Aussies will start the tour with a one-off Twenty20 match in Rajkot on October 10 followed by seven ODIs.
“If you look at the tournament, it is not just a tournament but a chance to be No. 1 in the world in one of the three formats,” said Rixon at the first media conference after the squad’s arrival here on Saturday night.
If Australia win the series handsomely they will become the world’s No.1 ODI team and if the hosts win they will retain the top spot.
Both Rixon and Bailey rued the absence of Michael Clarke, who was ruled out of the tour due to his back problem.
“You take Dhoni out, that probably answers your question,” said Rixon candidly, while Bailey said, “We would love to have Michael here.” (PTI)