Former Australian captain Ian Chappell rates Ricky Ponting as a better batsman than master blaster Sachin Tendulkar.

Through this statement, Chappell is believed to have started the war of words twelve days before Australia's first ODI against India.

Talking to Times Now, Chappell added that though the Indian spinners could trouble the Australian batsmen, the world champions are the favourites to win the series.

Chappell further said that the rivalry between India and Australia is for good for the game.

The first ODI of the seven-match series between India and Australia is to be played on October 25 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.