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The second day of the Brisbane Test between India and Australia commenced under a clear blue sky, a stark contrast to the gloom of the previous day. This change in atmosphere mirrored a shift in the momentum of the match, heavily influenced by the exceptional bowling performance of Jasprit Bumrah. His spell was nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing the precision and skill that has made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world. Bumrah's strategy was subtle yet effective. On the first day, his deliveries to Usman Khawaja were slightly straighter and shorter. However, on the second day, he adjusted his length, operating on the fuller side of a good length, preventing Khawaja from comfortably driving. This change exploited Khawaja's indecision, leading to several near misses before the crucial breakthrough.
The first ball of Bumrah's second over proved decisive. Khawaja, tentative in his approach, poked at a delivery pitched on the fourth stump channel. The ball straightened, kissing the edge of his bat on its way to Rishabh Pant, who completed his 150th dismissal behind the stumps. This wicket was a testament to Bumrah's ability to read the batsman and execute his plans flawlessly. His mastery over Australia's openers throughout this series is undeniable, with this dismissal adding to his impressive tally of seven dismissals in just three Tests, resulting in a stunning average of 4.28. Nathan McSweeney, the other Australian opener, met a similar fate, edging a ball that straightened to second slip after facing only two balls in the morning session.
With Australia teetering at 38 for 2, Steve Smith joined Marnus Labuschagne. Smith, employing his characteristic exaggerated back and across trigger, aimed to defend against the straight balls. India responded with a legslip fielder and even employed Akash Deep to bowl around the wicket, adding pressure to the experienced pair. Despite the initial onslaught, Smith and Labuschagne managed to withstand the remaining intensity of the opening burst, providing a period of resistance against India's third and fourth seamers. Labuschagne exhibited sound technique, adeptly leaving balls on length and trusting the bounce, showcasing his resilience under pressure.
Smith, on the other hand, gradually worked his way into a batting rhythm, primarily against the inexperienced Nitish Reddy. He strategically targeted the on-side, accumulating runs with calculated shots. The pair added 37 runs, but the slow run rate of nearly 15 overs for these runs highlighted India's tight bowling discipline. However, India's control wasn't absolute. A lapse in concentration allowed Labuschagne to drive at a full and wide delivery from Nitish, resulting in an edge expertly caught by Virat Kohli at second slip. This wicket broke the partnership and injected fresh impetus into India's attack.
India's dominance wasn't without its challenges. There were close calls against Smith, such as when he narrowly avoided being dismissed by Siraj's nip-backer, only saved by the Umpire's Call. Another close opportunity arose when Smith was struck on the pads by Akash Deep's full delivery. Further adding to the drama, Siraj hobbled off the field with a left hamstring injury, creating a brief moment of uncertainty before returning before the session's end. The session concluded with Australia at 104/3, leaving the stage set for an enthralling second half of the day.
The overall performance in this session underscored the tactical brilliance of India's bowling attack. Their ability to adapt their strategies, exploit weaknesses in the Australian batting lineup, and maintain consistent pressure proved highly effective. Bumrah's spell, in particular, served as a masterclass in fast bowling, highlighting his ability to dictate the terms of engagement and consistently trouble the opposition. While Smith and Labuschagne offered some resistance, the early wickets secured by India placed them in a commanding position, creating anticipation for the remainder of the Test match and the potential for a decisive victory.
Source: India strike thrice in riveting session of play before Lunch