India Trails Australia by 318 Runs, Loses Half Their Side

India Trails Australia by 318 Runs, Loses Half Their Side

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In a highly anticipated clash at The Oval, the World Test Championship final witnessed a dominant display from Australia as India found themselves struggling at stumps on Day Two. The Indian team, posting a modest score of 151/5, trailed Australia’s first-innings total of 469 by a staggering 318 runs. The Australian bowlers, led by the exceptional Pat Cummins, ripped through India’s top order, leaving them in a precarious position.

Pat Cummins, captaining the Australian side in his 50th Test match, set the tone by removing the key batsman Rohit Sharma early in India’s innings. Rohit Sharma, who had been in fine form, was dismissed for just 15 runs when he was trapped lbw by Cummins. The fast bowler showcased his skill and accuracy, conceding only 36 runs in his nine overs.

India’s troubles continued when Shubman Gill was bowled by Scott Boland for 13 runs. Gill misjudged a sharp off-cutter, playing no shot, and saw his stumps disturbed. The experienced duo of Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli also failed to make an impact, falling for 14 runs each. Pujara was bowled while leaving a delivery from Cameron Green, while Kohli fell victim to a rising delivery from Mitchell Starc, with Steve Smith taking a stunning catch at second slip.

Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja then steadied the Indian innings with a valuable partnership. Rahane remained unbeaten on 29 runs, showing resilience and determination. Jadeja, known for his aggressive batting style, counterattacked the Australian bowlers with a quickfire 48 runs off just 51 deliveries, including seven fours and a six. However, Jadeja’s innings was cut short by Nathan Lyon, who enticed an edge to slip, ending the promising partnership.

Earlier in the day, Australia seemed to be in complete control as they piled on the runs. Travis Head and Steve Smith’s brilliant centuries propelled Australia to a formidable total of 469 runs. Head reached his maiden overseas Test century and went on to score a magnificent 163 runs before falling victim to Mohammed Siraj. Smith, on the other hand, continued his remarkable form in England, reaching his seventh Test century on English soil. With 121 runs to his name, Smith showcased his class and skill.

However, India fought back admirably, led by Mohammed Siraj’s impressive bowling performance. Siraj claimed four wickets for 108 runs from 28.3 overs, putting a halt to Australia’s rapid progress. The Indian pacemen struck crucial blows, causing a collapse in the Australian middle order. Australia lost four wickets for just 41 runs, with Head and Smith being dismissed in quick succession.

Head’s dismissal came when he attempted to flick a legside delivery from Siraj but only managed to glove it to wicket-keeper Srikar Bharat. Smith, who looked set for a big score, fell victim to Shardul Thakur’s outswinger, inside-edging the ball onto his stumps. The Indian fans erupted with joy as the prized wicket of Smith fell.

With India trailing by a substantial margin, they face an uphill battle to salvage the match. The World Test Championship title hangs in the balance, and both teams will be keen to seize the opportunity. For Australia, winning the WTC would complete their collection of major men’s cricket trophies. India, on the other hand, is looking to avenge their loss in the inaugural WTC final and secure their first-ever title in the championship.

As the match moves into its third day, cricket fans around the world eagerly await the outcome of this thrilling contest. With India’s batsmen needing to deliver a strong response and Australia’s bowlers looking to maintain their dominance, the stage is set for an enthralling day of Test cricket.

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