The Australians have painted themselves into a spot.

The Australians have ceded an early advantage to India.

Their unconsidered interviews and columns have incited the Australian spectators. Having done that, they now find that they have to cool down the passions and ensure that no racial abuse happens during the Tests. Even a raised eyebrow can cause uproar.

This means that they can neither use the press nor indulge in sledging to gain a psychological advantage over their opponents.

This has given the Indians a huge advantage. They can use the media to score psychological points and they can also continue their aggression on the field.

It remains to be seen how Indians capitalize on this opportunity.