The second day of the 3rd Test between India and Australia in the ongoing series saw dramatic shifts in momentum at the Adelaide Oval. Travis Head continued his exceptional form against India, smashing another crucial half-century, while Steve Smith provided solid support, grinding his way to a fifty.
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India Starts Strong but Misses Key Opportunities
The morning session began with India making inroads through Jasprit Bumrah, who dismissed both Australian openers early. David Warner and Marcus Harris failed to capitalize on a relatively flat pitch, leaving the hosts reeling at 25/2. However, India’s momentum was halted as Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith began to stabilize the innings.
Labuschagne, despite looking uncomfortable at the crease, managed to add some runs before falling to Nitish Kumar Reddy. A turning point came when India opted not to review a delivery that replays later showed had brushed Smith’s glove. This missed opportunity allowed Smith and Head to take the game away from the visitors.
Head Punishes Indian Bowlers Yet Again
Travis Head, continuing his impressive form against India, was the standout performer of the day. His aggressive approach saw him reach a half-century in quick time, and he looked well set to convert it into a century. Head capitalized on loose deliveries and rotated the strike efficiently, putting pressure on the Indian bowlers.
Injury Concerns for India
Adding to India’s woes, pacer Mohammed Siraj had a hamstring injury scare in the first session. Although he later returned to the field, his pace seemed to lack its usual edge.
Key Stats and Highlights
- Travis Head reached his fifty off just 76 balls and looked poised for a big score.
- Steve Smith brought up his resilient half-century, showing immense patience against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
- Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming two crucial wickets early in the innings.
Session Summary
First Session: India dominated early, reducing Australia to 25/2.
Second Session: Australia fought back, with Smith and Head bringing stability and runs to the innings.
As Day 2 progresses, Australia seems to have gained the upper hand, with Travis Head’s attacking play and Smith’s solidity putting the visitors under pressure. India will need breakthroughs early in the next session to regain control.