Replicate England's success mantra to beat India: Jones

Former batsman Dean Jones feels Australia should replicate the bowling tactics employed by England in order to come up trumps in the upcoming Test series against India.

"Australia would do well to replicate England's recent bowling attack in India -- two quicks, two specialist spinners and a part-timer," Jones wrote in The Sydney Morning Herald.

The four-Test series starts on February 22 in Chennai and India would be under immense pressure after the debacle against England.

Jones said the Australians would also be under scrutiny and the performance in these Tests would give an idea about the side's progress.

"The Australian tour to India this month will be a great examination of where this team is, mentally and physically.

"It is going to be tough. The triumph in 2004 was Australia's only series win in India since 1969," he wrote.

Jones also elaborated on the tactics that the Australians will have to follow in the gruelling series.

"India's formula has been to have an opening bowling pair, then two specialist spinners and a part-timer to do some work when required.

"Last year, England replicated the 'Indian theory', and was rewarded with a 2-1 series win. I feel Australia should do the same," he said.

"For the first Test at Chennai, I would have a batting line-up of David Warner, Shane Watson, Ed Cowan, Phillip Hughes, Michael Clarke, with Matthew Wade at No.6," he added.

Jones said spinning all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who was the only million-dollar buy at the recent IPL players' auction, should be tested during the series.

"The selectors could pick another batsman, but I would go with Glenn Maxwell at No.7, and go in with the combination of two quicks and two specialist spinners. I realise that India hasn't really seen Maxwell with bat or ball, so I am willing to risk him," he said.

Jones said the Australians will have to not just play well but also keep it stable in the mind to emerge triumphant.

"Playing Test cricket in India is very demanding on the body. With the heat, the turning pitches and our poor record, this series will come down to having a great team environment and everyone enjoying their work," he said.

Jones said if Australia lose the series it will be difficult for them to claim the Ashes against England.

"If we get smashed in India, winning back the Ashes will be a bigger task. But playing in India can bring out the best and worst of cricketers and the team," he said.

"I can really see this tour developing the team into a powerful unit. They have the talent, but must stick to our motto in the past: 'If you lose patience ...you will lose the battle!" he added.