Leg spinner Anil Kumble has warned the World XI to expect a backlash from Australia in next month's Super Series after their Ashes defeat in England.
Hosts Australia face an elite World XI in three one-day internationals and a six-day Test following their 2-1 series loss to England.
"Playing in Australia, definitely it is going to be tough," he said. "They will come hard, they have lost a bit of pride. Home conditions will favour them."
"If you look at the Ashes, all matches were close, one didn't know till the last ball which way it was going to go."
India's leading Test wicket-taker said he is disappointed not to be picked for the Super Series.
"It's a recognition of the players' credentials," he said. "It is a great opportunity to showcase talent and get to understand each other, those you have played against, in the dressing room."
Kumble, 34, added he is eager to reach 500 Test wickets, a feat achieved only by four bowlers in the game's history.
"The sooner the better, I would ideally like to do it this year," he said.
Kumble has taken 465 wickets in 97 Tests and is also India's leading one-day wicket-taker with 329 victims.
