Smith Smith confident and prepared to play in the upcoming Test match following India's disappointing series loss to NZ: 'Everything fell into place'

Australia have not been able to clinch a Test series victory against India in the last decade, suffering two series defeats on their home turf. The last time Australia managed to secure a series win against India was in the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar series, where they emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. However, since then, Australia have faced defeat in the following four series against India, including losses to Virat Kohli's team in 2016-17 and 2018-19, Ajinkya Rahane's squad in 2021, and Rohit Sharma's side in 2023.

Smith, who enjoys batting against India, said his preparation has been terrific for the mega five-match series.

"My last week in preparation has been really good. I feel like I'm in a nice place and moving really well, I'm really balanced at the crease, and I feel like my bat's coming down a nice plane. So I was happy with the way about it tonight. It would be nice to have been out there a little bit longer," Smith told SEN Radio after Australia's win in the 1st ODI vs Pakistan.

The veteran batter has scored 2042 runs in 19 Tests at an astonishing average of 65.87, which included 9 centuries. Smith asserted that he is ready to go out and play a Test match tomorrow without any doubt.

"I'm ready. I'm ready now. Yeah, I could go out and play a Test match tomorrow, so I feel like I'm in a good place. I've had a really good week of training, came down here early and had a few hits. And I was just trying to get a few things right that I felt like I didn't quite have in sync. And it all just clicked. And I feel like I'm in a good place now," Smith further added.

The much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy will commence with the first Test--a day match--at Perth Stadium from November 22 to November 26, setting the tone for the series. The second Test, scheduled for December 6 to 10 at Adelaide Oval, will feature the exciting day-night format under the stadium's lights.