Gavaskar: Australia Gains Momentum After Adelaide in BGT

New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) Australia has made a significant comeback in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, leveling the series at 1-1 with an impressive 10-wicket victory during the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. With the third Test scheduled to begin at the Gabba on Saturday, former cricketing icons Sunil Gavaskar and Harbhajan Singh indicate that the balance of power has shifted towards Australia.

Gavaskar emphasized the crucial role of momentum in the series, stating, "The momentum that India gained after their win in Perth diminished during the ten-day interval leading up to the second Test." He continued, "Now, the momentum lies with Australia following their triumph in Adelaide, and with only three days left before the Gabba Test, it is certainly in their favor."

Harbhajan supported Gavaskar’s view, labeling this series as one of the most challenging in recent times, given both teams' resilience in overcoming setbacks. Reflecting on the high stakes, he remarked, "What occurred with Australia in Perth was unforeseen, and likewise, India wouldn’t have anticipated the outcome in Adelaide after their splendid win in Perth. However, considering the series as a three-match contest, India must secure at least two victories to claim the trophy. Their optimal chances lie in Sydney and Melbourne, but a win at the Gabba would set a commanding tone for India to take charge of the series."

The forthcoming match at the Gabba brings back memories of India’s historic win in January 2021. An undermanned Indian squad, captained by the audacious Rishabh Pant, who scored an unbroken 89, successfully chased a formidable target of 328 runs, thus ending Australia’s 32-year winning streak at that venue.

However, the current scenario is different. Australia, riding high on their comprehensive win in Adelaide, seems to possess the upper hand. Conversely, India must rapidly regroup and address issues in both their batting and bowling to pose a challenge to Australia in Brisbane, a venue renowned for its pace-friendly conditions.