IND vs AUS in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy has taken an electrifying turn, with India seizing control in the ongoing Sydney Test. After dismissing Australia for just 181 in their first innings, India secured a slender four-run lead. Rishabh Pant then stole the show with a blistering 61 off 33 balls, propelling India’s lead to nearly 145 by stumps on Day 2.
Australian head coach Andrew McDonald admitted that Pant’s approach surprised the team, particularly his defensive strategy in the first innings. Pant, known for his aggressive style, adopted an unusually cautious approach, scoring 40 off 98 balls. However, he returned to his trademark explosiveness in the second innings, putting immense pressure on Australia’s bowlers.
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Pant’s Unpredictable Batting Leaves Australia Guessing
Andrew McDonald expressed astonishment at Rishabh Pant’s uncharacteristic first-innings approach, where the southpaw labored to 40 runs during a 149-minute stay at the crease. Pant later revealed that he was not in the right frame of mind to attack, a statement that surprised both fans and the opposition.
The second innings, however, was a completely different story. Pant went berserk, smashing Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Beau Webster for towering sixes. McDonald praised Pant’s ability to shift gears and put bowlers under pressure, calling it a unique skill that demands constant strategizing from the opposition.
Despite Pant’s onslaught, McDonald commended Australia’s plans to counter him, which eventually led to his dismissal by Pat Cummins. The Australian coach highlighted the importance of continuing to adjust their strategies to handle Pant’s unpredictability in future encounters.
Scott Boland Proves To Be Kohli’s Kryptonite
Virat Kohli’s struggles against Australia’s bowling attack, particularly Scott Boland, have been a recurring theme in this series. Kohli has been dismissed by Boland eight times in nine innings, with the Australian bowler consistently exploiting his weakness outside the off-stump.
Andrew McDonald lauded Boland’s relentless accuracy and ability to execute plans, emphasizing how the Australian pacer has put immense pressure on Kohli. Despite Kohli’s attempts to counter Boland, such as stepping out of his crease, the Indian star has found it challenging to break free from the bowler’s dominance.
The Australian coach acknowledged Kohli’s class and resilience, noting that dismissing him is never easy. However, Boland’s consistent performances have made him a tough match-up for the Indian stalwart.
Pitch Conditions At SCG Add To The Drama
The pitch at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) has played a significant role in creating an exciting contest. Unlike traditional SCG surfaces, which are often slow and conducive to drawn matches, the current pitch has a green top with variable bounce, making it a fair and challenging track.
Andrew McDonald praised the ground staff for preparing a wicket that has brought balance to the game. The pitch has kept both batters and bowlers in the contest, leading to a dynamic and engaging match. With the surface speeding up the game, players have had to adapt quickly to the conditions, adding to the intensity of the battle.
India’s Dominance Sets The Stage For A Thrilling Finish
India’s performance on Day 2 has shifted the momentum in their favor for the first time since their victory in Perth earlier in the series. Bundling Australia out for 181 and taking a crucial lead has boosted the team’s confidence.
Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting in the second innings has further strengthened India’s position, giving them a solid lead to defend. The team will look to capitalize on their advantage and aim for a decisive win to level the series.
Australia’s Plan For A Comeback
While India holds the upper hand, Australia remains in the contest. Andrew McDonald emphasized the need for his team to regroup and execute their plans effectively on Day 3. With bowlers like Pat Cummins and Scott Boland in fine form, Australia will aim to restrict India’s lead and give their batters a fighting chance in the fourth innings.
The IND vs AUS Sydney Test promises an exhilarating finish, with both teams vying for dominance in this crucial match. As the game unfolds, the unpredictable brilliance of players like Rishabh Pant and the strategic execution of bowlers like Scott Boland will undoubtedly play a decisive role in determining the outcome.