The Adelaide Test ended unexpectedly early, concluding in the first session of Day 3 as Australia defeated India by 10 wickets.
After India’s impressive win in Perth, fans were hopeful for another dominant performance, but the team crumbled under pressure, falling back into their inconsistent ways.
India’s Batting Collapse
India’s batting lineup failed miserably. Skipper Rohit Sharma and veteran batter Virat Kohli underperformed, extinguishing the momentum generated in Perth.
Rohit, returning to the team after missing the first Test, couldn’t inspire the squad. His decision to bat lower in the order, despite strong performances from openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, didn’t help his struggling form.
Kohli, once a pillar of India’s batting, continued to face issues with deliveries outside the off-stump. This recurring weakness was exploited by Australian bowlers Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, leading to his dismissal in both innings.
Australia’s Dominance
Australia’s disciplined bowling and Travis Head’s century were pivotal in their victory. The hosts posted a solid first-innings total of 337, while Indian bowlers, despite a commendable effort by Mohammed Siraj, failed to contain the Australian attack.
The Indian team’s overconfidence post-Perth victory and inability to adapt to the pink-ball, day-night conditions in Adelaide were evident. Careless batting and ineffective bowling marred their performance.
Series Equalized, Questions Arise
Australia’s emphatic win not only leveled the series 1-1 but also exposed weaknesses in the Indian team. The result highlights growing criticism of the BCCI’s controversial decisions, including their handling of the Champions Trophy.
The final Test now promises to be a thrilling decider in an intense series.
Reported by Syed Haider