How Aussie keeper Alex Carey plans to master the tricky Indian conditions

Alex Carey has locked down his place in the Test side after two strong home summers and solid showings in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, but the South Australian knows keeping in India will be another matter entirely.

With Australia’s tour hitting top gear ahead of the first Test in Nagpur on Thursday, Carey has revealed his plans to handle the tricky conditions as Pat Cummins’ side look to win on Indian soil for the first time since 2004.

“Expect the ball every ball. Expect it’s coming your way and be mentally clear. Be fresh as possible from ball to ball, know it’s going to be a tough tour at times and expect the ball every time,” Carey said.

“From there, just react.

“Preparations will ramp-up over the next few days but we’ve been on tours in the last 12 months to Pakistan and Sri Lanka so there’s a good taste over there.

“Coming off some Big Bash cricket is a bit different to the longer format but I’m excited to get behind the stumps and see what unfolds.”

Carey has also been in contact with legendary former Australian keepers Ian Healy, Adam Gilchrist and Brad Haddin as he attempts to master the tricky Indian conditions.

“I speak to Gilly quite often and Hads, whenever we’re around the grounds,” Carey said. 

“In Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Hads was there and Heals reached out before we went to Pakistan. 

“I speak to the keepers really often and Tim Nielsen, who I work with quite closely back home.”

The tour marks the beginning of the final frontier for the Australians. After a dominant home summer, they’ll look to break the drought in India before heading to England for a World Test Championship final followed by an Ashes series.