South African fast-bowler Dale Steyn believes that India have been a bit smarter in the manner in which they're playing cricket ahead of the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Adelaide on December 6.
"I think they've been a bit smarter in the way that they're playing cricket," said the 35-year-old cricketer.
"Years ago they used to play a lot of spinners, they would even come down here (Australia) and play someone like Ashwin who would probably have a Test average in Australia of like 50 (currently 54.71)."
"Now they are smart enough to say, 'sorry Ashwin, we're not going to play you in this Test match', and even though he's one of the world's best spinners they'll go with another quick, or somebody who's more suitable for the conditions," he added.
Steyn further referred to the recently concluded Test series between India and England where the Indian pace bowlers made their presence felt.
"Even in England, I put my money on England to beat India in England, but India pushed them," said Steyn.
"I thought that England's bowling would be the thing that pipped India, but India's bowling really surprised me and if they continue in that vein they could cause some trouble down here," he added.
However, he backed the hosts to emerge victorious in the upcoming Test series, citing fatigue due to constant touring as a vital factor.
"It's going to be an interesting Test series, and if Virat (Kohli) scores runs – and we know Virat always scores runs – India will do well," said the 35-year-old cricketer.
"But I'd probably go with Australia, just in terms of history against India.
"The amount of touring they (India) have had this year, the guys might be a bit tired," he concluded.
The first Test between India and Australia is all set to take place on December 6 at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide.
