It was a remarkable turn by Team India in the ongoing four-game test series. After being humiliated by Australia in Adelaide, India kicked back into winning ways at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Team India led by Ajinkya Rahane took control of most of the second Test and came away with an 8-wicket victory to balance the series 1-1. The match ended on Day 4 when India knocked down a short target of 70 runs set by Australia.
After winning the opening game by a wide margin, Australia would be expected to come out all crushing guns in the second game at the MCG. Despite winning the first toss and batting, Australia led just 195 in the first essay and that is exactly where the game for toss for the guests went.
READ | ‘First-class experience comes in handy,’ Rahane praises editors Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj for impressive performance
Speaking at the end of the match on Tuesday, skipper Tim Paine did not make any bones as it was a disappointment to take advantage of India and allow the series to end. square.
“It simply came to our notice then. We played poor cricket, sloppy cricket for the main part of the game. Renowned for India, they made us make mistakes with the bat, ball, and also on the field. And when you do that against a quality team, it costs you, ”he admitted.
Paine made no bones about the Indians playing better cricket throughout the game. “But again, we have to give India credit because they are putting us under pressure,” he said.
The Australian captain said the team had to face the batting spells as they have not been able to click in any of the innings so far. “We have problems with the stick and we need to resolve it,” he explained. But the captain also praised Cameron Green for showing the temperance for grinding at the highest level. “We saw the gradient he showed (Green) and as he plays more games, he gets even better, which is exciting,” he said.
With the next test to play on Jan. 7, Paine said some of the boys may be released to play in the Big Bash League. “We may stay together even though some boys may be released to play BBL games but for the most part, we should be together,” he said.
(with ANI insert)