India v Australia 2018/19: 5 Key battles which might decide the outcome of the Test series

#2 Ajinkya Rahane versus Nathan Lyon

Ajinkya Rahane, India's vice-captain, is walking on thin ice. Not so long ago, he was India's best overseas batsman in SENA countries averaging over 50. But Rahane's reputation has plummeted down after his recent showing in the England series. However, Rahane can feel good considering the fact that he had scored 399 runs in 4 matches in 2014-15 at an average of 57 which consisted of a sublime 147 at MCG.

Rahane has particularly been troubled by spinners. He has got out to off-spinners and googlies in particular. He usually prefers to play the cut shot off the backfoot with the spin and plays it pretty well. However, this has also brought his downfall several times and picks the wrong length while attempting the shot.

Nathan Lyon has been Australia's best spinner since the legendary Warne who has troubled Rahane both in Australia and India. Rahane plays at number 5 when Nathan Lyon will be operating. Their battle would be the one to look out for.