India in confident mood

Dravid: averages 58.66 in Delhi

It's a great venue for us. I haven't played in a Test that we have lost here.

Rahul Dravid
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India v Australia - 3rd Test
Delhi, Oct 29-Nov 2
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Rahul Dravid is hopeful India can complete a series win over Australia with victory in the third Test.

The hosts carry the momentum after opening a 1-0 lead in the four-match series with a 320-run success in the second Test at Mohali.

The third instalment starts at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla on Wednesday, a venue that has been a happy hunting ground for India in recent times.

"It's a great venue for us," said Dravid, referring to his side's record of having won their last seven Tests at the venue stretching back to 1993.

"I haven't played in a Test that we have lost here, so it's always nice to return here.

"Hopefully we will wrap it up here and make it eight in a row."

Dravid, however, warned his team-mates to expect a backlash from the tourists.

Outplayed

"We definitely outplayed them in all departments of the game (in Mohali)," he added.

"They have not seen many failures and would be keen to come back.

"They will be hurting and will want to prove a point here."

Coach Gary Kirsten confirmed captain Anil Kumble will return to the side, if he proves his fitness following a rotator cuff injury.

Kumble missed the Mohali victory due to the problem and his replacement Amit Mishra marked his debut with seven wickets, including a five-for in the first innings.

"If Kumble is fit, he'll play the next match in place of Mishra," said Kirsten.

"He is looking good and we are happy with the way things have progressed."

Kumble has a superb record in Delhi, in six matches he has bagged 55 wickets, including all 10 in the second innings against Pakistan nine years ago.

Harbhajan doubt

Mishra may retain his place at Harbhajan Singh's expense as the off-spinner is struggling with a toe injury.

"We are not sure about Harbhajan," admitted Kirsten. "He picked up the injury towards the end of the last game.

"It could be a case of overuse.

"We will have to wait and see how he goes. We will assess his condition again tomorrow (Wednesday)."