Australian openers look pleasant before rain spoils day one | Cricket News

Australia’s Usman Khawaja returns to the dugout after a rain interruption at The Gabba in Brisbane. (Photo by David Gray/AFP via Getty Images)

BRISBANE: Judging by the little game that was possible on the first day of the third Test, India would have hoped for a better performance from their pacers. However, the big surprise came at the toss when Rohit Sharma again called to the right and opted to play first.
Undoubtedly, the batting unit looks fragile and that might have played a big role in the decision. Top-quality collapses in the first innings have been a regular occurrence for India on this tour. The batting concerns were also reflected in the inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja in the eleven in place of Ravichandran Ashwin.
At first glance, the decision seems cautious. The overcast conditions and the threat of impending rain would undoubtedly have had an impact on the team’s management, but fielding first brings its own concerns. Firstly, it puts immediate pressure on the new-ball bowlers. This was evident in Mohammed Siraj’s unimpressive first appearance, when the Australian crowd continued to boo every time he came on.
This was the first time since 2014 that India had bowled first in an away Test. The last time India finished first after a win in Australia was also at the Gabba, in 2003 under Sourav Ganguly’s captaincy.
India would have been disappointed with what it found once the trial began. There wasn’t much momentum and the spongy bounce meant the Australian openers could sit back contentedly. Only when the sun shines is the pitch likely to become faster. The pacers were also guilty of not bowling a little further near the 5-meter mark to move the batters forward.
When the first rain delay came after 5.3 overs, Australia were 19/0 and both Khawaja and McSweeney were content to wait for the right time. During this period, 58% of India’s supplies were inadequate. When play resumed, India seemed to have gotten the hang of things.
Akash Deep, who replaced Harshit Rana as expected, looked penetrating, bowled fuller and got a hint of off-swing. Bumrah brought Khawaja equalizer a couple of times. Signs were promising when the second and final rain break came, with Australia 28/0 in 13.2 overs.
The forecast for Sunday isn’t particularly optimistic either, but if the openers get through the morning session safely on day two, Australia can start thinking big. It is important for India from now on to make the most of the new ball.