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'Virat Went Back To...,' Ponting Wants Smith-Labuschagne To Follow Kohli's Mantra 

Poulomi Chakraborty

Kohli Scored century while Smith-Labushagne failed in 1st Test (Source:@M_OfSarcasm/x.com)Kohli Scored century while Smith-Labushagne failed in 1st Test (Source:@M_OfSarcasm/x.com)

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Team India got off to a great start to their Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign after crushing the Aussies with a thrilling 295-run win. Now, both teams are moving forward to the second Test match of the series. Before that, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting shared some advice to Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne.

Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne’s batting struggle is raising concerns. In the Perth Test, Steve Smith was dismissed on a duck in the first innings and scored 17 runs in the second innings. On the other hand, Labuschagne scored 5 runs combining both innings. Before stepping into the Adelaide Test, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting advised them to learn how Virat Kohli made a comeback in the last Test.

“Marnus looked the most tentative out of all the batters in Perth. Yes, it was high-quality bowling on a difficult wicket, but he needs to find a way to turn it around. Virat went back to trusting his game and he looked like a different player in the second innings than he did in the first innings,” Ponting said.


“He (Kohli) got away from trying to combat the opposition and focused on his strengths. That's what Marnus and Smith need to do - find their own way and show great intent,” Ponting added.


“You have to find a way to take risks and put it back on those guys because you know the Bumrahs of the world… they're not going to give you too many easy scoring opportunities. When they do, you've got to be ready to pounce on it and put it away and try and put some pressure back on them," Ponting advised.

Ponting’s Mantra to Bounce Back

Facing a massive 295-run defeat in the first Test match was a huge setback for Australia. In front of India’s dominating bowling, the Australian batting lineup shattered. As Australia is gearing up aiming a strong bounce back, Ricky Ponting warned them about India’s fiery bowling attack. They advised them to take charge and strike back.