Former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie - who played 71 Tests, 97 ODIs and one T20I for Australia - believes this is India's best chance to win their maiden Test series Down Under.

In a chat with TOI on Monday, Gillespie spoke on the upcoming series, the pitches at home, his team's chances and why the home team fans should lower their expectations. Excerpts...

India have suffered series defeats in both South Africa and England in the last 12 months, but there is a feeling that they can capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding Australian cricket at the moment...

I certainly believe India start favourites. Australia haven't been at their very best as there has been a lot going on at the moment. We are missing a few key players at the moment. India, on the other hand, are very strong and led well by Virat Kohli. I think India have more clarity on what their best team is but Australia still don't know what their best XI is.

Is this the weakest Australian side you have seen in recent times?

We have got to understand that there has been a lot going on in Australian cricket and it's bound to have some effect on the results of the side. I think the new players who are coming in need to be given more time to settle in. Also, the Australian supporters need to lower their expectations because this side hasn't been playing the cricket we know they can play in recent times. The current Australian team's strength is in its bowling and we have the likes of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins who can be quite a handful. I reckon the upcoming series will be a tussle between India's batsmen and Australia's bowlers.

How do you assess the Test pitches?

The surfaces are going to be very batting-friendly. With the new ball, there will be some help for the fast bowlers but once the Kookaburra gets older, I certainly think the batsmen will call the shots.

Will Australians continue to tone down their aggression and cut down on sledging?

Look, I want the Australian players to be themselves. I want them to play within the laws and respect the game. They must have positive attitude and good body language.

What will be your prediction for the Test series?

Look, you never want to go against your own country. I don't want to give a prediction but I firmly believe that this is India's best ever chance to beat Australia in Australia. They have got a great side and a good opportunity to have a real go.