What Went Wrong For India In The Pink Ball Test Vs Australia At Adelaide

The recent pink-ball Test match between India and Australia in Adelaide was a significant setback for the Indian cricket team. After a commanding victory in the first Test, India faced a crushing defeat by 10 wickets, leading to a series-leveling win for Australia. 

This article delves into the reasons behind India’s disappointing performance, analyzing key factors that contributed to their downfall and looking ahead to the upcoming matches in the series.

ALSO READ: The Australia Series: A Defining Moment For Virat Kohli In Test Cricket

5. Batting Collapse: A Recurrent Theme

India’s batting lineup struggled significantly throughout the match. They failed to cross the 200-run mark in both innings, scoring 180 and 175 respectively. The inability to build partnerships or provide substantial contributions from key players was evident.

The top order crumbled under pressure, with only Nitesh Kumar Reddy showing some resistance in the second innings with a score of 42 runs off 47 balls.

Key Statistics:

4. Failure to Handle Pink Ball Conditions

The pink ball presents unique challenges, particularly during twilight, when it tends to swing and seam more. India’s bowlers struggled to adapt their strategy effectively. According to cricket analyst Sanjay Manjrekar, India’s bowlers missed crucial opportunities to target the stumps, which allowed the Australian batters to settle into their innings during difficult conditions.

Bowling Performance:

• India’s bowlers managed only a fraction of their deliveries on target, with just about 15% of good-length balls directed at the stumps during critical phases of play.

3. Lack of Mental Resilience

Mental toughness is crucial in Test cricket, especially when facing challenging conditions and aggressive opposition. After a dominant win in Perth, India’s sudden collapse suggested a lack of mental resilience and adaptability.

The team appeared demoralized after losing early wickets, failing to regroup and mount a competitive score.

2. Australia’s Dominance in Pink-Ball Tests

Australia has established itself as a formidable force in pink-ball Tests, particularly at Adelaide Oval, where they have now won eight consecutive matches. Their experience and familiarity with these conditions played a significant role in their performance against India.

The Australian bowlers, led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, capitalized on India’s weaknesses effectively.

Bowling Figures:

1. Impact on World Test Championship Standings

The defeat has serious implications for India’s position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. Following this loss, India slipped to third place in the rankings, jeopardizing their chances for a spot in the WTC final scheduled for June next year.

This pressure adds a layer of significance to upcoming matches as they seek to reclaim their position.

Upcoming Matches in the Series

India’s tour of Australia continues with three more Test matches scheduled as part of this historic five-match series—the first time since 1992 that such a series has been held between these two cricketing giants.

Upcoming Match Schedule:

These matches will be crucial for India as they aim to bounce back from their recent defeat and secure their place in the World Test Championship standings.

Conclusion

India’s performance in the pink-ball Test against Australia at Adelaide highlighted several critical areas needing improvement. From batting collapses and failure to adapt to conditions, to mental resilience and strategic execution, these factors collectively contributed to their defeat.

As they prepare for future matches, addressing these issues will be essential if they hope to regain their standing in international cricket and compete effectively in the ongoing Australia vs India series.

ALSO READ: AUS Vs IND 2024-25 Test Series: Schedule, Venues, And Broadcast Details