Spinner Nathan Lyon is brimming with confidence as he prepares to return to his happy place for the first Test against India, starting on December 6.
Lyon tuned up for the four-Test series with a star display in NSW's 104-run Sheffield Shield victory over WA at Optus Stadium.
The 31-year-old snared 3-34 and 4-86 in the first ever Shield match at the 60,000-seat stadium.
Lyon's next challenge is a Test against India at Adelaide Oval - a venue he used to be a groundkeeper at, and where he has enjoyed remarkable success.
Four years ago against India in Adelaide, Lyon snared figures of 5-134 and 7-152 to inspire Australia to a 48-run win.
"If I recreate that it would be amazing," Lyon said, when reminded of that performance.
"It was an amazing Test match for what cricket can offer. It was a different Indian side back then.
"But this Indian side, they've obviously got superstars right through from batting to bowling.
"I'm feeling very good. I'm feeling very confident with the ball at the moment."
India offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who has been studying footage of Lyon as he seeks to adjust to local conditions, is among the good judges who rate Lyon highly.
"We started our Test careers at the same time, so obviously mutual admiration is there," Ashwin said.
"He has done well over the last couple years and is bowling well.
Lyon feels like he has enjoyed a great preparation heading into the Test series.
And he gave the Optus Stadium pitch a big tick of approval.
Optus Stadium will host the second Test against India, starting on December 14.
Lyon said the wicket was similar to that of the WACA, which is renowned for its pace and bounce.
"I think it was a pretty well-rounded wicket," Lyon said.
"I love bowling at the WACA, because you get the bounce. I certainly got some bounce out here. They are pretty similar."
WA skipper Mitch Marsh posted scores of just six and 30 in the loss.
But after scoring 151 against Queensland earlier this month, Marsh feels he is ready to fire against India.
"I feel really good. I feel like I'm batting really well," he said.
"I'm really comfortable with the way I'm seeing the ball. I would have liked more runs, but I'm feeling really confident."
