Post-IPL it feels awkward to sledge Indians, says Hopes

Series between India and Australia over the last few years have not only witnessed exciting fare but also great on-field rivalry and heated moments. The upcoming seven-match ODI series, commencing on October 25 in Vadodara, promises as much, but with lesser sledging from the tourists.

"It is easier to get under the skin of a person if you don't know him personally. But thanks to the Indian Premier League, we know many of the [Indian] players and hence it becomes awkward sometimes," says all-rounder James Hopes.

"Things can get a bit heated when you are on the field but the difference from the earlier times is that it will be restricted on the field. Once the match is over we clarify all the issues off the field," he adds.

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine also replied in the negative when asked about on-ground sledging.

"I have done it a few times in domestic matches but yet to open my mouth in international matches. If I have to say anything, I would rather say it to the bowler and the skipper," Paine said.

Australia speedstar Mitchell Johnson, who has already talked about giving chin music to the Indian batsmen, recalled an incident when he tried to sledge Rahul Dravid during last year's Delhi Test.

"I hoped to put Rahul Dravid off his game and really sledged him. He was batting on 50-plus. But he hardly reacts. I realised soon that I was wasting my breath," he said.