In a stunning display of dominance, Australia crushed India by 10 wickets in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Adelaide Oval. The hosts, fueled by a desire to avenge their first Test defeat, delivered a clinical performance with both bat and ball, leaving India reeling and raising questions about their ability to compete in the remaining matches.
Day 3: Swift and decisive finish:
The final day of the Adelaide Test was a mere formality as Australia wasted no time in wrapping up the victory. India, resuming their second innings at 128 for 5, could only add 47 runs before being bowled out for 175. Mitchell Starc struck early, dismissing Rishabh Pant in the first over of the day, effectively ending any hopes of an Indian fightback.
Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, led from the front, claiming a five-wicket haul and dismantling India's lower order. Nitish Kumar Reddy, the debutant all-rounder, top-scored for India with a defiant 42, but his efforts were in vain as Australia chased down the paltry target of 19 runs in just 3.2 overs.
Australia's pink-ball fortress:
This victory extended Australia's unbeaten streak in pink-ball Tests at the Adelaide Oval to eight matches, solidifying their reputation as the masters of day-night Test cricket. For India, it was a second consecutive pink-ball Test defeat in Australia, raising concerns about their vulnerability under lights.
India's batting collapse:
India's batting performance throughout the Test match was a major disappointment. They were bowled out for less than 200 in both innings, with their senior batsmen, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, failing to make a significant contribution. This raises questions about their form and ability to anchor the innings in challenging conditions.
Australia's dominance:
Australia's performance was a complete contrast to India's struggles. Travis Head's blistering century in the first innings set the tone for their dominance. Mitchell Starc's mastery of the pink ball and Pat Cummins' leadership and bowling prowess proved too much for the Indian team.
Series heats up:
With the series now level at 1-1, the remaining three Tests promise to be a thrilling contest. The sledging battle between Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head has added spice to the rivalry, and both teams will be eager to gain the upper hand in the upcoming matches. The next Test, starting December 14th in Brisbane, will be crucial in determining the momentum of the series.
Australia's emphatic victory in Adelaide has sent a strong message to India. The hosts have shown their resilience and determination to defend their home turf. India, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their batting vulnerabilities if they hope to challenge Australia in the remaining Tests. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is now poised for a thrilling climax, with both teams eager to claim the coveted trophy.
