There has never been a time when Australia has needed India more than right now. Despite the Covid numbers skyrocketing in India, you can rest assured that Cricket Australia will do everything in its powers to ensure the Indians play cricket here this summer. The hypocrisy is breathtaking because many of the State borders remain closed to even people who are facing medical emergencies or to visit dying relatives but when it comes to sport, Australia has no qualms about bending the rules.

The Indian tour comes at a curious time for many Australians who are self-reflecting awkwardly on where they stand with issues like border control, keeping foreigners (and viruses) out but yet having to confront uncomfortable self-truths around inherent racism. These awkward conversations are being played out around the world of course but the Indian tour will force many of those casual bigots to balance their love of cricket with their inbuilt prejudices. India is the hottest ticket in town, the possible saviour of the summer but they are also...let's face it...Indian. And that remains a deep-seated cultural problem; we need the Indians to save the day but is it a temporary romance of convenience?