• Australia declared their first innings at 289/9 against the West Indies on Day 2 of second Test in Brisbane.

  • Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins scored crucial half-centuries for Australia.

Twitter reactions: Pat Cummins, Usman Khawaja showcase brilliance as Australia stages a resurgence on Day 2 of Gabba Test – AUS vs WI 2024
Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins (Image Source: Twitter)

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In a stunning turnaround, Australia declared their first innings at 289/9 on Day 2 of the second Test against the West Indies at Gabba in Brisbane, a mere 22 runs behind the visitors’ formidable score of 311. The captivating partnership between Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins steered Australia out of a perilous position after an initial struggle, marked by the team’s slump to 50/5. Alzarri Joseph‘s impressive spell earned him figures of 4/84, while Kemar Roach contributed with three crucial wickets for the West Indies.

Usman Khawaja-Pat Cummins masterclass: A resilient recovery by Australia

The afternoon session witnessed a sudden collapse for Australia, losing key wickets, including Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne. In the fifth over, Cameron Green lofted the ball to mid-off, while Travis Head nicked one down the leg side, putting Roach on a hat-trick. However, Khawaja skillfully negotiated the hat-trick ball, surviving the potentially challenging delivery. Mitchell Marsh‘s dismissal further deepened Australia’s predicament at 50/5. Nevertheless, Khawaja, along with Alex Carey and Cummins, orchestrated a brilliant recovery, each reaching a commendable half-century and steering Australia close to the West Indies total.

Australia’s bold declaration

Khawaja’s elegant innings of 75 eventually met its end with an edge to first slip, providing debutant Kevin Sinclair with his maiden Test wicket. Carey, on a path to a potential century, succumbed to a catch at square leg. Cummins, showcasing his prowess, not only secured his highest Test score but also orchestrated a strategic declaration with one wicket in hand. The bold move set the stage for a challenging period for the West Indies before stumps, and they lost an early wicket, finishing at 13/1 with a modest lead of 35.

Also WATCH: Kemar Roach wreaks havoc at Gabba; onslaughts Australian top-order during AUS vs WI 2nd Test

Kevin Sinclair’s debut brilliance for the West Indies

Earlier in the day, West Indies successfully compiled a formidable total of 311 in their inaugural innings. Commencing play from an overnight score of 266/8, Sinclair emerged as a pivotal figure, exhibiting resilience and determination as he notched up a defiant half-century, scoring 50 off 98 balls. His innings was characterized by the elegant execution of five fours and an emphatic six. The culmination of this impressive display came as Sinclair was stumped off the bowling of off-spinner Nathan Lyon.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also WATCH: Kevin Sinclair takes a breathtaking flying catch to get rid of Marnus Labuschagne – AUS vs WI, 2024

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