• Travis Head and Steven Smith produced exceptional centuries that put Australia in a commanding position.

  • Australia finished the Day 2 of the Brisbane Test at 405/7 against India.

AUS vs IND [Twitter reactions]: Travis Head, Steve Smith’s ton put India on the backfoot despite Jasprit Bumrah’s fifer on Day 2 of the Brisbane Test
AUS VS IND (Image Source: X)

Table of Contents

On Day 2 of the third Test at Brisbane, Travis Head and Steve Smith produced exceptional centuries that put Australia in a commanding position. Head’s innings of 152 off 160 balls, which featured 18 boundaries, was a masterclass in attacking batting. His ability to find gaps and convert scoring opportunities into boundaries showcased his aggressive intent. Meanwhile, Smith’s 101 off 190 deliveries provided crucial stability in the middle order, anchoring Australia’s innings with his patient and disciplined approach. The pair added a 241-run partnership for the fourth wicket, leaving India on the backfoot as Australia finished at 405/7, gaining a substantial lead.

India’s early dominance with the ball

India’s decision to bowl first initially appeared effective, as Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant spell. He claimed five wickets for 72 runs in 25 overs, removing key Australian batsmen like Usman Khawaja (21), Nathan McSweeney (9) and Mitchell Marsh (5). Bumrah’s incisive pace and movement unsettled Australia’s top order, keeping India in the contest despite Australia’s early dominance. However, Mohammed Siraj and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy failed to build sustained pressure, with Reddy particularly struggling to maintain control. India’s bowling attack couldn’t find a way to dismiss Smith and Head, leaving the middle order unscathed.

Steve Smith and Travis Head take control

The partnership between Smith and Head proved to be the turning point of the match. Smith, known for his patience and resilience, reached his 27th Test century with a composed innings, grinding down the bowlers and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Head, on the other hand, played aggressively, unleashing a flurry of boundaries that kept the pressure on the Indian bowlers.

The contrasting approaches of Smith and Head frustrated India’s bowlers, who failed to break their partnership despite repeated attempts. Smith’s composure at one end and Head’s attacking intent at the other allowed Australia to gain complete control of the session. Smith’s century, his 27th in Test cricket, reinforced his reputation as one of the premier batsmen in challenging conditions, while his ability to counter India’s bowlers laid the foundation for a commanding Australian total.

Late resistance by Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc

After the departure of Smith and Head, Alex Carey provided valuable resistance with an unbeaten 45 off 47 balls, ensuring Australia maintained momentum in the innings. Carey’s knock was crucial in keeping the run-rate steady and pushing Australia’s total beyond 400. Mitchell Starc, at the other end, chipped in with 7 runs off 7 balls, providing brief support as Australia ended the day on a strong note. Extras also played a significant role, with 33 runs added to Australia’s total, highlighting India’s struggle to maintain control and stem the flow of runs.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Netizens go wild as Steve Smith hits 33rd century on Day 2 of the Brisbane Test

Jasprit Bumrah’s fighting effort

India now faces a monumental task, trailing by 405 runs, as they begin their reply. While Bumrah’s heroics provided some hope, India’s batters must counter the challenging conditions. The Brisbane surface continues to favor the bowlers, offering pace and bounce that will test India’s top order. Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul was a standout performance, constantly troubling the Australian top order with his pace and movement. However, the lack of support from other bowlers meant Australia capitalized on the pressure, ensuring they extended their dominance.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Fans erupt as Travis Head lights up Gabba with a stellar century on Day 2 of the Brisbane Test

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: Featured Jasprit Bumrah Steve Smith Test Travis Head Twitter Reactions

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
AMAR PAL SINGH BHALLA
Amar is a sports enthusiast and a talented writer who has found the perfect career that combines his two passions. As a valuable member of Cricket Times, Amar brings his passion for cricket and his talent for writing to the fore, providing readers with insightful and engaging content. Cricket lives rent-free in his mind. A person who views cricket as a metaphor for life. You can connect with Amar at amar.bhalla@crickettimes.com and also follow him on LinkedIn.