Australia Crush India in Adelaide to Level Series and Top WTC Standings
A determined Australia stormed back into the five-Test series against India with a resounding 10-wicket victory in Adelaide on Sunday, reclaiming the top spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. The win marked a stunning turnaround for the hosts, who had suffered a humiliating defeat in the series opener in Perth.
A Perfect Day-Night Record in Adelaide
The match, completed in just over two days, underscored Australia’s dominance at their favorite day-night Test venue, where they now boast an impeccable 8-0 record. Spearheaded by an exceptional bowling performance from Mitchell Starc and skipper Pat Cummins, the hosts dismantled India’s batting lineup and turned the series on its head.
- Mitchell Starc: Starc’s mastery of the pink ball was evident as he claimed a sensational 6-48 in the first innings. His spell, which included dismissing India’s Perth centurions Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli, set the tone for Australia’s dominance.
- Pat Cummins: The captain led by example in the second innings with 5-57, ripping through India’s lower order and sealing the comprehensive win.
Travis Head’s Match-Winning Knock
While the bowlers shone, it was Travis Head’s blistering 140 off 150 balls that proved decisive. Head, who has been a consistent nemesis for India, once again delivered a match-winning performance on his home ground.
“His innings was a momentum shift,” Cummins said. “The game could have gone either way when he walked out to bat, but he took it straight out of their hands.”
Emerging Contributions
Australia’s victory was also bolstered by emerging and consistent performers:
- Nathan McSweeney: In just his second Test, McSweeney impressed with a gritty 39 in the first innings, stabilizing the top order.
- Marnus Labuschagne: Returning to form with a patient 64, Labuschagne silenced critics and provided crucial support during Australia’s first innings.
India’s Struggles Continue
For India, the defeat was a harsh reality check after their morale-boosting win in Perth.
Batting Collapse
India’s batting lineup collapsed across both innings, managing just 81 overs and failing to register a single half-century:
- Rohit Sharma’s Struggles: The captain’s batting woes continued, scoring just 3 and 6 in Adelaide. With only one half-century in his last 12 Test innings, including eight single-digit scores, questions loom over his form.
- Middle-Order Misfires: The return of Shubman Gill and the presence of established players failed to stabilize India’s batting.
Bowling Overdependence
Without Mohammed Shami, India’s bowling lacked depth, relying heavily on the brilliance of Jasprit Bumrah. The absence of consistent support from the rest of the attack left India vulnerable.
Looking Ahead: Tactical Changes for Brisbane?
India’s captain Rohit Sharma hinted at potential tactical shifts ahead of the third Test in Brisbane, starting December 14. A batting reshuffle, including switching Rohit and KL Rahul in the order, is on the cards.
“We’re looking forward to Brisbane,” Rohit said. “We need to reflect on what worked in Perth and apply that mindset.”
Australia’s Perspective: Confidence Restored
The Adelaide victory not only leveled the series at 1-1 but also restored confidence in the Australian camp. After facing criticism for their Perth performance, the emphatic win reinforced their reputation as formidable competitors.
- Marnus Labuschagne: “Last week, we were apparently the worst Test team ever. This week, we’ve leveled the series with two days to spare. We’re ready for Brisbane.”
Key Takeaways
- Australia: Dominance in all departments, with contributions from bowlers and batsmen, highlighted their depth and adaptability.
- India: The need for batting resilience and a more balanced bowling attack is critical for their hopes of bouncing back in Brisbane.
As the series heads to Brisbane, the momentum firmly lies with Australia, but India has shown resilience before. With the series tied at 1-1, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
