Australia produced a commanding performance to secure a resounding 10-wicket victory over India in the Pink Ball Test at the Adelaide Oval. Under pressure to prove themselves after recent criticism, the hosts delivered in style, dominating the game across all three days. Mitchell Starc’s fiery spell and Travis Head’s breathtaking century were pivotal moments that tipped the scales firmly in Australia’s favor.
India, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, succumbing to consistent pressure in both batting and bowling departments. Despite winning the toss and opting to bat first, the visitors faltered at crucial junctures, raising concerns about their preparation and decision-making for high-pressure matches. Here are the key reasons that led to India’s downfall.
3 reasons behind India’s defeat in the Adelaide Test
1. Batting collapse at crucial junctures
India’s batting lineup was unable to withstand Australia’s relentless bowling attack, particularly under challenging twilight conditions. The collapse began with Yashasvi Jaiswal falling LBW to Starc on the very first ball of the match. Starc, who was in imperious form, went on to claim six wickets, restricting India to a modest 180 in their first innings.
In the second innings, the trend repeated as Indian batters crumbled once again under the pink-ball’s movement during the twilight period. The top and middle order failed to apply themselves, with no batter able to anchor the innings. Australia capitalized on the conditions, leaving India with little room to recover.
Also WATCH AUS vs IND – Mitchell Starc cleans up Shubman Gill with a toe-crushing yorker on Day 2 of Pink Ball Test
2. Questionable captaincy decisions
India’s captain Rohit Sharma faced scrutiny for several tactical decisions that arguably cost the team pivotal moments in the match. During Australia’s first innings, defensive field placements allowed Head to settle and play his natural attacking game. Head’s blistering 140-run knock came at a brisk pace and shifted the momentum decisively in favor of the hosts.
Moreover, the choice of bowlers during critical phases, particularly in the twilight period, left much to be desired. India struggled to capitalize on the early breakthroughs, allowing Australia to build a significant first-innings lead.
3. Unsettled team combination
India’s team selection raised eyebrows, with many experts questioning the exclusion of Akash Deep. His ability to swing the ball under lights could have added a crucial dimension to India’s bowling attack. Harshit Rana, though promising, failed to make an impact, leaving the Indian pace attack looking one-dimensional.
Similarly, the absence of Ravindra Jadeja was a major talking point, as the veteran spinner’s experience and guile could have helped India contain Australia’s batters during long partnerships. Although, Ravichandran Ashwin was included in the final XI, but he didnt look promising at all. The lack of variety in the bowling attack, coupled with these selection decisions, hampered India’s chances of turning the game in their favor.
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