Anil Kumble thinks that it is imperative for India to win the opening Test of the four-match series against Australia if they wish to be as successful as they were the last time they toured Down Under.

“If we can stay ahead in the first Test match then India has a great chance to repeat what they did in the last Australia tour (in 2018),” the spin legend, who is also a former captain, said during an event.

“Although with (Steve) Smith and (David) Warner coming back, and then Virat (Kohli) missing the three Test matches, it will obviously be a big factor for India. But having said that, there’s enough ability within the team, be it batting or bowling.

“So if India can sort of get ahead against Australia in the first Test, then I will back India. But if that doesn’t (happen), then it is going to be a tough ask without Virat in the next three (Tests).”

Rahul Dravid, also a former skipper, said India would have to find someone who can amass 500-odd runs in the series like Cheteshwar Pujara did the last time the team was in Australia.