Dhoni's men have a lot to prove against Aussies

Sydney: India play the first of the best-of-three final of the CB Series against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday

The Sydney pitch is a flat batting wicket and Virender Sehwag is likely to return. But indications are that Robin Uthappa will keep the opener's job pushing Sehwag down the order while the final bowling spot may be a toss up between Praveen Kumar and Munaf Patel.

Despite all these headaches, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni hasn't lost his sense of humour; responding cheekily when asked what he made of Matthew Hayden being rested by Australia in the last game.

"Maybe he wanted to be in a boxing match. Before the boxing game it will help. I don't know he wanted a boxing game," Dhoni joked referring to Hayden's remarks about getting into a boxing ring with young Indian pacer Ishant Sharma.

Spirits are high in the Indian team despite what has been a bruising tour and in its final week; India are looking to overcome the burden of history and win a big final.

"You don't have to be really too much into history. People say history repeats itself so whatever you do you are a part of history. You don't really have be concerned or look to create history. Whatever you do, will be a part of history - good or bad. So just concentrate on cricket," was Dhoni's advice to his teammates.

Australia's dramatic defeat on Friday to Sri Lanka has halted their winning momentum in the series.

The batting collapse in the last league match, which they lost by 13 runs, reminded the world champions yet again that they aren't quite on top of their game and they also have a strong opposition to contend with in the final.

"I know our guys are 100 per cent ready, focused and really looking forward to the challenge of playing India. I am sure India would love to leave Australia on a winning note as well so all bodes well for a fantastic final," Australian batsman Michael Hussey said.

Both the teams have refused to back down on the war of words or the war of bat and ball. Now the final round is about to begin. Ricky Ponting's proven performers have the reputation to win the big games and Dhoni's daredevils have a point to prove and whoever wins the series will be the real winner.