Indian pacers started the second practice match against Cricket Australia XI from the same point where they ended the first warm-up fixture at the very same ground, a couple of weeks ago. Varun Aaron and company, again, stamped their mark with aggression and control in Adelaide.
India’s bowling looked pretty sharp as they bundled the hosts for a mere 243 in just 68.3 overs on the opening day. The touring party has not much to worry as far as their bowling is concerned, but the batting, the top-order in particular, is a cause of concern for the Indian think tank.
Shikhar Dhawan failed to capitalise on the final innings before the first Test at Adelaide Oval and was dismissed for a duck in the very first over of the Indian innings. Dhawan’s form in whites has not been good lately and it would be difficult for Team India to choose the openers for first Test.
Team India finished the day on 99 for the loss of two wickets, with Murali Vijay and Virat Kohli at the crease. The Indian team has one more day left in the practice match to get the batting practice before the series opener.
Earlier, pacers led by Aaron ensured that they keep the momentum heading for the series opener in Adelaide. Aaron took four wickets for the visitors and along with fellow pacer Mohammad Shami, who finished with three wickets, ripped through the top-order.
Leg-spinner Karn Sharma again made an impression and finished with three wickets, while left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with one wicket. Karn looked in complete control with his leg-spin and dismissed well-set Doran (25), Keath (19) and Pattison (16).
Opener J Silk (104-ball 58) was the standout performer for the home team, along with SE Gotch as they made identical scores. Gotch, however, remained unbeaten till the end and hit five boundaries and a six in his 119-ball innings.
Team India, meanwhile, got some decent batting practice, despite losing Dhawan early. Vijay made an unbeaten 81-ball 39, while Kohli remained unbeaten on 30 and scored at a good pace.
Josh Lalor was the pick of the bowlers for Cricket Australia XI and finished with two wickets of Dhawan (0) and Pujara (22)
