Australia [Images] skipper Ricky Ponting [Images] may be loathe admitting it, but his predecessor Steve Waugh has no qualms in saying that Zaheer Khan [Images] and Harbhajan Singh [Images] play with the passion of the "baggy greeners" and without their spirit, Australia would already have been one up.

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"They (Zaheer and Harbhajan) play with the passion that is expected of all 'baggy greeners' and without their spirit Australia would be one-up," Waugh wrote in his column in 'Herald Sun'.

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"Without doubt, the turning point came on day three (of the drawn first Test in Bangalore) with Australia on the cusp of dominating proceedings until Harbhajan and Zaheer combined to not only post invaluable half-centuries but soak up crucial time that halted Australia's momentum," the former skipper wrote.

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"It was a courageous partnership by two players who exhibit traits that Aussies admire, but at the same time annoy us. They are both combative, not afraid to be vocal and are able to bring out the best in those around them."

Waugh was all praise for Zaheer for his fine show with the bat and ball in Bangalore where he picked up the man of the match award.

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"India will rejoice in the confidence Zaheer displayed. He has often frozen in big matches against Australia but this time he resembled Wasim Akram, producing late swing and deceptive pace," he said.