Adelaide, Dec 8 (V7N) – Australia bounced back in emphatic fashion to crush India by 10 wickets inside three days in the second Test at Adelaide, leveling the five-match series at 1-1. The victory comes after a heavy 295-run defeat in Perth, with captain Pat Cummins declaring that his team is "back to their best."
The win marks Australia’s eighth consecutive pink-ball Test triumph at Adelaide, setting the stage for an intense third Test at the Gabba starting Saturday.
Cummins Leads with the Ball
Pat Cummins spearheaded the attack, taking 5-57 in the first innings and finishing with seven wickets in the match. He emphasized the team's reinvigorated spirit after facing criticism post-Perth defeat.
"That's the kind of team that I remember and how we want to play our cricket," said Cummins. "Being one down, no doubt there's a bit more on it, trying to level up the series. It’s a big series, every wicket is pretty big, and we were pumped."
Travis Head's Game-Changing Knock
After bowling India out for 180 in the first innings, Australia responded with a dominant 337, courtesy of Travis Head's explosive 140. His performance turned the tide of the match, putting immense pressure on India.
Cummins praised Head’s ability to shift momentum:
"It feels like every time he walks out, the game’s in the balance. Within a session, he can take the game out of the opposition's hands. He's super impressive and has done it time and time again."
Hazlewood Likely to Return
Australia achieved this victory without frontline pacer Josh Hazlewood, who missed the game due to injury. Hazlewood is reportedly on track to return for the crucial Gabba Test.
The Brisbane Test promises to be a high-stakes encounter with the series level at 1-1. Australia will aim to carry the momentum forward, while India, led by Rohit Sharma, will look to regroup and reclaim the upper hand.
Key Performers:
Australia:
Pat Cummins: 7 wickets in the match
Travis Head: 140 runs
India:
Rohit Sharma: Top-scored in the first innings with 46
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