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IND vs AUS: Gritty Handscomb stands tall as Australia continue to breathe 

image-le89mpndPeter Handscomb in action [Source: AP]

The change in venue didn't bring any change in fortunes for Australia, as they fell flat yet again against the rampant Indian bowling in the post-lunch session of the second Test in Delhi. 

However, fortunately for the visitors, Peter Handscomb and Pat Cummins put price on their respective wickets, keeping the Indian bowlers at bay in the rest of the session. 


How the battle panned out? 

The session began with Australia reeling at 94 for three, with Usman Khawaja battling it out for the visitors alongside Travis Head. 

But the hosts roared back their way into the game, as Mohammed Shami put an end to Head's brief innings, removing him for a 30-ball 12. 

However, the gritty duo of Khawaja and Peter Handscomb tried their best to resurrect the Australian innings, stitching a vital 59-run stand for the fifth wicket. 

But just when things seemed to be going in Australia's favour, Khawaja's go-to shot, the reverse sweep, became the reason for his demise, as KL Rahul's sensational grab made him walk back to the pavilion with disappointment written all over his face. 

Meanwhile, Alex Carey continued his poor run in India, falling prey to R Ashwin's guile for a five-ball duck. 

However, Handscomb used his feet to perfection, making it tough for India to run through the Australian tail. 

On the contrary, skipper Pat Cummins decided to live by the sword and die by the sword, as he adopted a counterattacking approach to contribute some quick runs for his side. 

The duo stood firm, ensuring Australia had no further hiccups, being placed at 199 for six at Tea on day 1. 


Talking Points


  • Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin accomplished phenomenal bowling milestones. While Jadeja entered the 250 Test wickets-club, Ashwin completed 100 Test scalps against Australia. 
  • Peter Handscomb completed 1000 runs in Test cricket. He has come down the track time and again to tackle the Indian spinners; his footwork has been extraordinary so far.  


Expectations from the final session

Although Handscomb and Cummins look solid in the middle, it will be a daunting task for the visitors to go unbeaten into the second day. So, we expect India to bundle them out and bat for a few overs in the final session. 


Brief Scores

Australia 1st innings: 199/6 (56)
Usman Khawaja 81 (125), Peter Handscomb 36* (75), Pat Cummins 23* (31) ;
Ravichandran Ashwin 3/57, Mohammed Shami 2/41