The Australians were celebrating on Thursday night after their 122-run series-opening win over India at the MCG. But there was also a warning from captain Michael Clarke that the tourists would improve and so must Australia, ahead of the SCG test starting on Tuesday.
"Consistency is what I've spoken about in the past," Clarke said post-match on Thursday. "There's periods throughout that game where we didn't perform as well as we'd like. We need to look to improve that come Sydney.
"Against such a good team, you can't afford to give them a sniff. When you're on top you need to make the most of that.
"It's about working out how we're going to improve and come out all guns blazing in Sydney and try to win another test match."
But Clarke also cited a long list of positives from the first test.
He praised the batting resistance provided by the lower order and the execution of plans by Australia's bowlers against the experienced Indian batting line-up.
A pair of half-centuries by Ricky Ponting were also welcome, as was Mike Hussey's drought-breaking 89 under enormous pressure in the second innings.
Clarke also said opener Ed Cowan's patient debut innings was critical.
Paceman Ryan Harris has been added to Australia's 12-man squad for the second test. Harris, who is working his way back from a hip injury, will give Australia the option of a four-man pace attack. He replaces left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who was 12th man in Melbourne.
Though the Sydney Cricket Ground has traditionally been a spin-friendly wicket, it may be prepared to suit pacemen this time to negate India's strength against spin bowling. If so, Harris could join a four-man pace attack while offspinner Nathan Lyon is demoted to 12th man.
Allrounder Shane Watson has not yet recovered from a calf injury and will miss the test.
Harris was regarded as Australia's No 1 fast bowler before his injury absence, but the performances of James Pattinson, Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus in the first-test victory have cast doubts on whether Harris can force his way into the team.
Watson's continued absence ensures the six batsmen from the Melbourne test will be retained, although the strong performances of Ponting and Hussey had already ensured their spots. Wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin is also safe, despite his continued poor form.
Chairman of selectors John Inverarity said the team would take great confidence and momentum into the second test and he welcomed Harris' return to the squad after a four-test absence.
Australia
12th man to be named:
Michael Clarke (c), Brad Haddin, Ed Cowan, David Warner, Shaun Marsh, Ricky Ponting, Mike Hussey, Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris, Ben Hilfenhaus, Nathan Lyon, James Pattinson.
- AAP
