Bhajji and Hayden Identify India's Partnership Shortcomings After Adelaide Loss
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Adelaide, Dec 9 (NationPress) Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh and veteran Australian batter Matthew Hayden emphasized that the absence of 'big partnerships' within the Rohit Sharma-led team contributed significantly to their 10-wicket loss in the second Test at the Adelaide Oval.
The Indian batting lineup struggled against Mitchell Starc and captain Pat Cummins, with the pair claiming a total of 15 wickets, leveling the five-Test series at 1-1.
During the first Test of the series held in Perth, Yashasvi Jaiswal (161) and Virat Kohli (100 not out) scored centuries in the second innings, while KL Rahul added a resilient 77, leading India to a commanding 295-run victory in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma.
However, the momentum shifted towards Australia in the second Test as Indian batters were unable to cope with the pressure from Starc and Cummins, resulting in them being all out for 180 and 175 at the Adelaide Oval.
“One area where India needs to improve is the partnerships. We require substantial partnerships. Our performance in Adelaide lacked these, which left us with insufficient runs on the board. If we had managed to post 300-350 runs, our bowlers possess the capability to dismiss them,” Harbhajan stated on Star Sports.
Hayden also pointed out the shortcomings in India’s batting during the pink-ball Test and urged for an improved performance in Brisbane.
“Team India did not bat sufficiently well, that’s undeniable. Although the pitch was challenging, it’s unacceptable to be bowled out in under a day and a half. This must be addressed ahead of the Brisbane Test,” Hayden remarked.
Meanwhile, the former Australian batter praised the Indian bowling lineup, spearheaded by speedsters Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, despite Travis Head's spectacular 140-run innings that set the match’s tone for the home side.
“On average, I thought the bowling was quite commendable. Considering the extraordinary innings by Travis Head, 140 off 141 balls was remarkable. Occasionally, batsmen have their moments,” Hayden commented.
The third Test between India and Australia is scheduled to take place in Brisbane starting December 14.
