Australia’s star opener, Travis Head, is popular for his exceptional record at Adelaide Oval. However, he fell early in the second ODI of India vs Australia. Hence, he pushes the momentum to the visitors. Yet, the left-hander’s dismissal for just 28 runs proved to be a turning point as India’s young bowlers applied relentless pressure.
Head entered the ground with a stellar record of 301 runs in four ODIs at Adelaide at an average of 75.25, including a century and two fifties. Moreover, he also has 963 runs in 13 matches with four centuries across all formats at this ground, which makes the ground his personal fortress. However, India ensured that the southpaw could not repeat his usual magic.
Harshit Rana Leads India’s Comeback
India’s emerging pacer Harshit Rana delivered the breakthrough wicket that set the tone for the innings. Rana dismissed Head comfortably for 28 when Virat Kohli comfortably caught him in the covers. Earlier, Arshdeep Singh had sent back Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh for 11, reducing the hosts to 30/2.
The two early wickets have destroyed the top order of Australia and forced them to rebuild the phase. However, Matt Renshaw and Matthew Short tried to stabilize the innings, but the Indian bowling attack kept things tight to maintain consistent pressure.
Earlier in the day, the India cricket team scored a total of 264/9 because of Rohit Sharma (73 off 97) and Shreyas Iyer (61 off 77). Three of them stick to the important partnership despite an earlier setback. Moreover, all-rounder Axar Patel (44) and tailenders Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana added vital runs to push the total beyond 250.
Travis Head vs Kohli: The Battle of Adelaide Giants
Before his dismissal, the rivalry between Travis Head and Virat Kohli was one of the most anticipated matchups at Adelaide. Both players have enjoyed remarkable success at this venue. So, take a look at the top performances of Head and Kohli below:
- Travis Head: 301 runs in 4 ODIs, Average 75.25
- Virat Kohli: 244 runs in 4 ODIs, Average 61.00
The memorable knock of Head of 128-run against Pakistan in 2017 remains a highlight. On the other hand, Kohli has also dominated here with two centuries, including one against Pakistan in the 2015 World Cup and another in 2019 that helped India clinch their first ODI series win in Australia.
Adelaide has long been regarded as the “Home Away from Home” for Kohli because he has smashed 975 runs in 12 matches across formats at the venue at an average of 65.00. Plus, he has made five centuries and four fifties.
India’s Balanced Bowling Attack Proves Effective
The combination of youthful energy and disciplined execution has stood out. Here, Harshit Rana instantly gained the momentum for his fearless bowling. Hence, it was instrumental in breaking the partnership. Moreover, the left-arm pace of Arshdeep Singh has also added variation and control.
The early breakthrough of the duo has exposed the middle order of the Australian cricket team. Hence, it put pressure on Alex Carey, who also got dismissed after making 9 runs by Washington Sunder. However, his calm presence at the crease was important, but India’s tight bowling has put him in danger.
Expert Take: A Test of Temperament for Both Sides
The early dismissal of Travis Head has hurt the chase of Australia. Still, the team looks balanced due to Matthew Short half half-century and Cooper Connolly’s composed innings. However, the failure of Head to convert his start does not overshadow his consistent brilliance at this stadium. Instead, it showcases how preparation and tactical awareness have evolves.
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