If we execute our skills well we're sure we will be very competitive Adam Gilchrist

Gilchrist, who will be in charge until Ricky Ponting recovers from a broken thumb, described the forthcoming series as "an iconic event".

But he believes their 3-0 win in Sri Lanka earlier this year had shown they could do well in the sub-continent.

"The guys are in a better mind-set and prepared to take on India," he said.

Australia lost 2-1 on their last visit in 2001 despite winning the first Test and forcing Sourav Ganguly's side to follow on in the second.

"It's a wonderful challenge to beat India in India, especially since the rivalry between the two teams has been built up to the highest level.

"Australia hasn't won here since before I was born," said Gilchrist.

Both sides are likely to have a key player missing from the first Test in Bangalore on 6 October with Ponting's injury balanced against Indian batting star Sachin Tendulkar's struggle to recover from tennis elbow.

Youngster Cameron White will understudy spinner Shane Warne

"It's a big loss for both the teams. But as far as we are concerned, hopefully we'll be able to make it up as we have some quality players.

"I don't think the excitement will be less because they are not there," Gilchrist continued.

"I'm not here to prove anything or leave my imprint on the Australian team, but to continue the way we play under Ricky's leadership.

"We'll be speaking to him and see our game goes in the direction he'd have wanted."

Australia will begin a three-day warm-up game against Mumbai on Thursday.