Team India managed a total of 185 in their first innings on the opening day of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The batting lineup faced a stern test from Australia’s bowlers, who capitalized on the pitch’s assistance and disciplined execution to restrict the visitors to a below-par score.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India’s innings began with promise but quickly descended into a struggle. Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill weathered the initial overs, showing glimpses of confidence, but the breakthroughs came swiftly for Australia. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, leading the charge, exploited the movement and bounce on offer, dismantling India’s top order.
The middle order faced no respite as Scott Boland joined the attack, delivering a devastating spell that sent Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli back to the pavilion in quick succession. Kohli, in particular, looked to steady the innings but fell to a sharp in-swinger from Boland after scoring 29 runs. India found themselves at a precarious 97/5 shortly after lunch.
Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel attempted to counter the Australian onslaught with a gritty 48-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Jadeja’s 38 runs were crucial in lifting India’s total, but his dismissal at the hands of Nathan Lyon signaled the beginning of the end. The lower order offered minimal resistance, with the final wicket falling in the 58th over.
Starc was the standout performer for Australia, claiming 4 wickets for 49 runs, while Boland chipped in with 3 wickets at key moments. Cummins and Lyon also contributed, ensuring a relentless assault on the Indian batting unit.
With the batters unable to post a commanding total, the focus now shifts to India’s bowlers. The SCG pitch has shown signs of aiding the seamers early on, and India will hope Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ravichandran Ashwin can exploit the conditions to level the playing field. Early wickets will be crucial for the visitors as they seek to stay competitive in the match.
India’s modest total has set the stage for an intriguing contest. While the bowlers carry the responsibility of keeping the team in the hunt, much will depend on their ability to adapt and deliver under pressure. The match remains open, promising high-stakes action in the days to come.