Australia dominated Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), leading by 474 runs with just one innings remaining. The first innings saw Steve Smith scoring his 34th Test century, demonstrating his consistently high caliber of play. Pat Cummins also played effectively for his 49 runs, making it even harder for India to regain momentum. Former head coach Ravi Shastri criticized India's bowling strategy, describing it as 'ordinary' and questioning the team's decision to field two spinners when the pitch did not seem conducive to spin bowling.
On the morning of Day 2, Australia resumed at 311 for six and quickly extended their lead, with Steve Smith unbeaten on 139. According to Shastri, the Indian bowlers lacked direction, particularly as there was a remarkable 40-over gap before Ravindra Jadeja was introduced. Washington Sundar, taking the place of Shubman Gill, was also criticized for being used too late, raising questions about India's game plan.
Shastri noted, “I thought the bowling was pretty ordinary,” adding, “India ran out of ideas. Spin wasn’t used as much as it should have been.” He expressed his frustration with team selection, questioning the identity of the spinners when they should have played a more prominent role. The move to include Sundar had some merit, according to assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, who stated it would add depth to the bowling attack.
Nayar explained the rationale behind omitting Gill, who had been among India's best scorers before the Test, stating the decision prioritized Rohit Sharma's return to the opening slot and aimed to bolster the bowling strength through Sundar. "I wouldn't say he's been dropped per se. It’s just unfortunate he couldn’t find his place this game," Nayar said.
During commentary, Sunil Gavaskar echoed Shastri's sentiments, criticizing Akash Deep's ineffective bowling, noting the missed opportunities presented by Australia's batting. The Indian bowlers struggled overall, which allowed Australia to finish Day 2 with 474 runs, firmly placing pressure on India's batting lineup required to respond swiftly.
Despite Rohit Sharma's promotion to the opening position, he was dismissed early when caught off Cummins, succumbing to the pressure with just 3 runs to his name. KL Rahul came next but fell just before the tea break, raising alarms about the strength of India’s batting order. Kohli managed to ground himself for 36, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal's promising 82 runs, but their attempts were not enough to change the momentum of the game.
Statistical reports confirmed Australia’s excellent start with Sam Konstas making headlines during his debut match, scoring 60 runs, enhancing Australia perceptions as formidable opponents. All eyes remain on the Indian team as they attempt to mount a comeback against Australia, who look well positioned with their established batting strength and a commanding lead.
With outstanding plays from iconic figures like Smith, who has remained consistently dangerous throughout the series, he has made it clear why he is seen as one of the world’s best. “India paid the price for letting Steve Smith settle. He’s a master batsman,” Shastri noted, reinforcing the importance of strong strategic plays.
Overall, India's urgent need to address their failed strategies and respond effectively before it is too late looms large as they face Australia on the back foot, trailing significantly as Day 2 ends with Australia leading 474 runs to India’s 164/5.
