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Arthur says Oz team`s morale not `rock bottom` following crushing twin defeats

Australia coach Mickey Arthur has claimed his team`s morale is not rock bottom following two crushing defeats against India in the ongoing Test series, but he admitted some players are still shell shocked at the difficulty of succeeding in the harsh Indian conditions.

Sydney: Australia coach Mickey Arthur has claimed his team`s morale is not rock bottom following two crushing defeats against India in the ongoing Test series, but he admitted some players are still shell shocked at the difficulty of succeeding in the harsh Indian conditions.
Australia is trailing 2-0 in the four-match Test series and losing the next Test match in Mohali would mean the tourists would officially surrender the Border-Gavaskar trophy, News.com.au reports. The national selectors have copped brickbats on several fronts not only concerning their strategic philosophies but also the belief they botched the initial composition of the touring squad. Australia`s spirit may have been sapped by consecutive Test defeats, notably the horror show in Hyderabad, but Arthur is clear when he says he detects no sign of internal discontent. Arthur said there is no issue in terms of team morale, but the players are realising some harsh lessons about playing in India, adding when he stood up at the start of the tour and said to them, ``This is going to be the toughest cricket you`ve ever played`’, they looked at him and said, `Yeah right`. Arthur added the players are now realising it and they`re like leeches for information, and they are putting the time and effort in, adding they are shocked at how hard it is. ANI