Adelaide: The Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series between India and Australia witnessed a dramatic twist as Australia bounced back to crush India by 10 wickets in the second match in Adelaide. With the series now tied at 1-1, the stakes have intensified for both teams as they eye a spot in the World Test Championship final.
India’s Disastrous Batting Collapse
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, India’s batting lineup failed to capitalize on a decent start. The team managed a meager 180 runs in their first innings. Nitish Reddy top-scored with 42 runs, but the rest of the top order crumbled under pressure. Key contributors like Yashasvi Jaiswal (0), Virat Kohli (7), and captain Rohit Sharma (3) failed to make an impact.
Australia’s Mitchell Starc was the star of the innings, claiming a sensational 6-wicket haul. Scott Boland and captain Pat Cummins chipped in with two wickets each, keeping India on the backfoot.
Travis Head Shines with a Century
In response, Australia put up a commanding performance, scoring 337 runs. Travis Head anchored the innings with a brilliant century, solidifying Australia’s dominance. India’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj each taking 4 wickets. Nitish Reddy and Ravichandran Ashwin managed one wicket apiece, but the team conceded a significant lead of 157 runs.
India’s Second Innings Flop Show
India’s second innings mirrored the first as the batting unit faltered once again. Nitish Reddy showed resilience, scoring another 42 runs, while Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill contributed 28 runs each. However, the rest of the lineup collapsed, with Virat Kohli (11) and Rohit Sharma (6) failing to lead from the front.
Australia’s bowlers shone brightly, with Pat Cummins leading the charge by picking up 5 wickets. Boland added 3 wickets to his tally, while Starc dismissed 2 Indian batters.
Series Tied at 1-1, Brisbane Awaits
Australia chased the target of 24 runs without breaking a sweat, leveling the series at 1-1. With three matches remaining, the third Test at Brisbane’s Gabba, starting December 14, becomes a do-or-die encounter for Team India. A loss could jeopardize India’s hopes of securing a spot in the World Test Championship final, making this match crucial for both teams.
What’s at Stake?
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is more than just a contest of skill—it’s a battle for pride and a chance to secure a coveted spot in the World Test Championship final. As both teams prepare for the next showdown, the pressure is mounting on the Indian side to regroup and deliver a stronger performance in Brisbane.
The stage is set for a high-stakes clash, and fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating whether India can make a comeback or if Australia will seize the momentum to take the lead in the series.
