India find themselves in a precarious position on day two of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, leading by just 130 runs after losing five wickets.
The visitors took 128/5 in the second over, with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja (2*) at the crease.
Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill fell earlier. India had earlier taken a narrow lead by four runs after Australia’s first innings ended on 181.
The Indian bowlers were in good form, with Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Nitish Kumar Reddy taking three wickets each.
The only bright spot for Australia in their first innings was debutant Beau Webster, who fought hard for a 57-run knock, but it was not enough to give the hosts a big total.
The morning session saw India face an early setback when Shubman Gill was dismissed for 13 minutes by debutant Beau Webster, taking the score to 97/4.
Pant and Jadeja now find themselves tasked with stabilizing the innings. Pant’s aggressive approach continued as he hit boundaries, including a huge six off Scott Boland, but the pressure remained on India to build a bigger lead. Jadeja, known for his flexibility, is expected to play a key role in the partnership as India looks to push the initiative further.
Earlier, Indian bowlers dominated the first innings in Australia. After beating Australia by 181 runs, India got a slight advantage.
Siraj led the way with a brilliant spell, taking three wickets for just 35 runs, while Krishna and Reddy provided key breakthroughs, including the crucial removal of Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, for 10. Beau Webster was Australia’s only resistance, anchoring the goal. An innings with a patient 57, but without enough support from the other end, Australia were dismissed cheaply.
Meanwhile, there was concern in the Indian camp when Jasprit Bumrah was taken off the field for scans after he felt some discomfort. He later returned to the field, much to the delight of the fans, but his fitness going forward will be crucial to India’s plans.
With India still in the driver’s seat, Pant’s contribution will be key in consolidating their progress.