The narrative for the second Test between India and Australia has flipped dramatically since the opening match of the series. Heading into the first Test, it was India under significant pressure, grappling with underperformance and selection issues, while Australia exuded confidence on home soil. However, after India’s emphatic performance, the tables have turned, and Australia now finds itself in a similar predicament to India’s initial situation.
Australia’s Challenges
Australia faces several questions heading into the second Test. Injuries to key players have disrupted their plans, with Josh Hazlewood’s absence particularly impactful, especially in a day-night format where he thrives. His likely replacement, Scott Boland, brings quality and reliability, but the team will miss Hazlewood’s experience. Mitch Marsh is expected to be fit
enough to reclaim his position at number six, which is a significant boost for Australia. His absence would have been a major setback, but he seems to be in good shape.
The focus will also be on Australia’s batting unit. The critics and media have raised questions about several selection decisions, with Marnus Labuschagne under significant pressure. Despite his recent struggles, I would back Labuschagne for this game, though he may be nearing the point where such faith becomes harder to justify. He’s an incredibly hard-working player who has likely done some soul-searching and will be determined to find a way back to form.
Similarly, Steve Smith, another world-class performer, is also looking to rediscover his touch. Both players have been short of runs lately, but it’s easy to forget their remarkable past achievements. They aren’t machines, but their class and quality should eventually shine through, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see both deliver strong performances.
Australia’s top order, led by Usman Khawaja and newcomer Nathan McSweeney, needs to set the platform, especially against Jasprit Bumrah, arguably the best bowler in the world right now. While Bumrah won’t always strike early, Australia must focus on enduring his spells, even when he’s not at his absolute best. Surviving those tough phases against Bumrah could make batting significantly easier later.
This match will test Australia’s strength of character, resilience, and determination— qualities this team has shown in abundance over the years. A spirited fightback from
Australia wouldn’t come as a surprise, and they’re capable of putting in a strong performance to bounce back in this series.
India’s Confidence and Selection Calls
India, buoyed by their brilliant win, enters the second Test with a spring in their step. Bumrah has been a game-changer, supported well by Mohammed Siraj, who seems to enjoy the extra pace and bounce the conditions offer.
In the batting department, India is likely to stick with the opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, whose crucial partnership in the second innings of the first Test set up the victory. Jaiswal’s controlled aggression and ability to leave balls on length have been impressive. As I mentioned in my last article, Jaiswal needed to strike a balance in his batting, effectively striking the right mix between leaving deliveries, attacking, and displaying controlled aggression. He was spot on with this approach. In the second innings, he executed this balance perfectly, which was particularly evident in his partnership with Rahul. His ability to leave the ball on length was commendable and played a crucial role in their success. Given their performance, I would stick with Jaiswal and Rahul as the opening pair.
Shubman Gill is expected to slot in at number three, with Rohit Sharma batting at number five and Rishabh Pant at six.
When it comes to India’s bowling, I am uncomfortable with the fact that neither Ravindra Jadeja or R Ashwin get to play. Nitish Kumar Reddy impressed in the first innings, playing a key role in getting the team to a respectable total. He looked confident and comfortable in his debut Test match, which is an encouraging sign for the future.
However, the absence of either Jadeja or Ashwin leaves the side feeling slightly unbalanced. While Washington Sundar performed reasonably well in the previous match and brings good balance to the team, I would personally lean toward including one of Jadeja or Ashwin to strengthen the bowling attack further.
India had an almost perfect Test match in Perth, highlighted by Virat Kohli’s return to near his best form. This has bolstered the team’s confidence significantly. Heading into the second Test, India is riding a wave of momentum, in stark contrast to Australia, who appear to be slightly below their best. The two teams are entering the match with markedly different levels of self-assurance.
If I were to make a prediction, I believe Australia will stage a strong comeback in this Test match. However, playing under lights introduces an element of unpredictability, as timing
can play a crucial role in determining batting and bowling fortunes. Reflecting on the last Adelaide Test between these sides, the ball didn’t swing or seam as much under lights as expected. Interestingly, much of the damage was inflicted during daylight hours, a factor worth considering in this match as well.
India will aim to capitalise on their momentum and maintain their ascendancy. With contrasting confidence levels—India riding high and Australia looking to regroup—the stage is set for a fascinating contest.
