It's challenging to argue that the top four bowlers in Australia aren't Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon. All four are among Australia’s top 10 Test wicket-takers, with the first two nearing 300 wickets and the latter two comfortably surpassing it. Their combined tally stands at 1443.

Since they first joined forces in the 2017-18 Ashes, they have played together in 31 Tests, a record for any frontline quartet in international cricket. Despite injuries and varying conditions, this lineup has featured in nearly half of Australia’s 64 Tests during that period, including 23 out of 36 at home. This includes the last nine Tests against India across three series, with Mitchell Marsh being the only other Australian bowler to take an Indian wicket in those matches.

Despite their impressive numbers, this attack has faced its share of challenges. They conceded 447 runs in the first innings on Boxing Day in 2018 and 622 in the next match in Sydney. They also failed to bowl out India on the fifth day in subsequent series, leading to draws and significant chases. Even in Perth this year, they conceded 487 for 6 in the second innings.

Given Hazlewood’s injury before the second Test in Adelaide, could a change in the lineup disrupt India’s rhythm? Scott Boland, despite his low profile, has previously dismantled India in a crucial match. Other options like Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott, who have never played a Test, could serve as wildcards.

Interestingly, one of Australia’s two wins out of nine matches was at Adelaide in the only previous day-night Test. Starc and Lyon, despite their less flattering figures, have played every pink-ball Test for Australia. Last time the pink ball was used, Australia bowled out India for 36.

Ultimately, the success of Australia’s bowlers depends on the team’s ability to score runs. India faces the challenge of integrating run-makers into their batting order, while Australia struggles to produce runs. With Rohit Sharma returning as India’s captain and KL Rahul staying as an opener, Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith are under pressure to perform.

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