December 27th 2024.
On day two of the fourth Test between India and Australia in Melbourne, things took a turn for the worse for the Indian team. After a strong start and a solid partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli, a mix-up between the two resulted in Jaiswal getting run out. This unexpected setback gave Australia the breakthrough they needed and put India in a tough spot at 164/5.
With a deficit of 310 runs and the threat of a follow-on looming, India needed to regroup and come up with a solid plan to turn the game around. It was a disappointing turn of events considering the promising start they had on a batting-friendly pitch. Things quickly went downhill after Jaiswal's run-out, with Gautam Gambhir's questionable decision to send in a night watchman backfiring and leading to the loss of three more wickets in just four overs.
The run-out between Jaiswal and Kohli will surely be a moment that will be remembered for a long time. Jaiswal seemed frustrated as he told his idol that it was his call for the single. Kohli, who had been looking confident and in control until then, seemed to regret not making a clearer call. This moment seemed to break Jaiswal's concentration and he was dismissed shortly after.
The rest of the Indian batting lineup struggled to withstand the Australian bowlers, with Akash Deep being dismissed in a similar fashion to Jaiswal. The day ended in Australia's favor, much like how it began. Jaiswal and Kohli's partnership of 102 runs had given hope to Indian fans, but unfortunately, it was not enough to turn the tide.
The day belonged to Australian batsman Steve Smith, who added to his overnight score of 68 to reach his 34th Test hundred. He formed crucial partnerships with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, helping Australia reach a strong total. Despite a brilliant showing from Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah, his teammates were unable to support him, with Mohammed Siraj having an off day.
Smith's century was a contrasting performance to his slow start on the first day, as he attacked the Indian bowlers and even hit two sixes off Bumrah and Siraj. The Indian team's decision to play two spinners proved to be ineffective, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar struggling to make an impact. Siraj, who had a history of trying to sledge opponents, seemed to have learned his lesson and refrained from any such behavior.
However, the Australian fans were relentless in their boos and jeers towards Siraj and Kohli whenever the ball came to them. Despite the challenging conditions and a strong start, the Indian team will need to come up with a solid plan to turn the game in their favor in the remaining days of the Test.
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