India vs Australia 3rd Test, Day 2 Highlights - Travis Head and Steven Smith Dominate as Australia Reach 405/7

The second day of the 3rd Test between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground was a marathon session of resilience and dominance, as Australia finished at 405/7 after 101 overs. Led by the stellar performances of Steven Smith and Travis Head, the home side seized control of the game, leaving India with a mountain to climb on Day 3.

A Day of Contrasts: Early Joy and Subsequent Toil for India

India began the day on a promising note after opting to bowl, with Jasprit Bumrah dismantling the Australian top order in the morning session. The star pacer dismissed Usman Khawaja (21) and Nathan McSweeney (9) with his unrelenting accuracy, while debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy sent Marnus Labuschagne packing for a painstaking 12. At 75/3, Australia looked vulnerable, and India seemed poised to capitalize.

However, what followed was a batting masterclass by Travis Head and Steven Smith. The duo’s mammoth 241-run partnership for the fourth wicket not only blunted the Indian attack but also swung the momentum firmly in Australia’s favor.

Head and Smith: The Architects of Australia’s Dominance

Travis Head continued his dream run in the series, scoring a scintillating 152 off just 160 balls. With 18 boundaries punctuating his aggressive innings, Head was a nightmare for the Indian bowlers, consistently finding gaps and putting pressure on the fielders.

Steven Smith, who had been under scrutiny for his form, silenced his critics with a gritty 101 off 190 balls. Starting cautiously, Smith found his rhythm as the partnership with Head grew, combining textbook technique with occasional aggression. His century marked a significant return to form and was crucial in setting up Australia’s commanding position.

Bumrah Shines Amidst India's Struggles

While the Indian bowling attack struggled to contain Australia’s batting juggernaut, Jasprit Bumrah stood out with figures of 5/72. The ace pacer’s ability to swing the ball and consistently attack the stumps gave India brief moments of hope. Bumrah dismissed Smith, Head, and Mitchell Marsh (5) in quick succession during the third session, briefly stemming the flow of runs. However, he lacked adequate support from the other bowlers.

Mohammed Siraj (1/97) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (1/65) managed to pick up a wicket each but were largely ineffective. Akash Deep and Ravindra Jadeja endured a tough day, conceding runs without posing significant threats to the batters.

Late Resilience from Carey and Cummins

After Smith and Head’s dismissal, India tried to claw their way back into the game. However, Alex Carey and Pat Cummins combined for a vital 50-run stand that took Australia past 385. Cummins eventually fell to Siraj for 20, but Carey remained unbeaten on 45, showcasing his flair with five boundaries and a six.

Mitchell Starc (7*) joined Carey in the final moments of the day, ensuring Australia closed on a strong note at 405/7.

Travis Head: “It’s All About Positivity”

Reflecting on his innings, Head expressed satisfaction with his aggressive approach. “I enjoy batting positively and spending time in the middle. Credit to the top-order for weathering the new ball. Batting with Steve [Smith] is always a pleasure, and it allowed me to play my natural game,” Head said post-match.

He also praised Bumrah’s bowling, acknowledging the challenges of facing the Indian spearhead. “Bumrah bowled brilliantly today. He’s always tough to face, but I enjoyed the contest.”

What Lies Ahead

India will hope for a better showing with the ball on Day 3 as they aim to wrap up the Australian innings early. However, with rain forecasted and Australia already sitting on a formidable total, the pressure will be on India’s batters to respond strongly when their turn comes.

For now, Australia hold the upper hand, thanks to Head and Smith’s heroics. The match is intriguingly poised, but the Indian camp must regroup quickly if they are to keep their hopes alive in this pivotal Test.