Australia Dominates Day Two of the Boxing Day Test
On Friday, during the second day of the fourth Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australia’s experienced batter Steve Smith showcased his brilliance yet again. Resuming their first innings at 311 for 6, Australia extended their lead, with captain Pat Cummins contributing 49 runs before being dismissed. However, it was Smith’s bat that stole the spotlight as he powered through to score a remarkable century.
Smith’s masterclass ended at 140 runs, helping Australia post an imposing total of 474 runs in their first innings. This performance put significant pressure on the Indian team, struggling to find their footing in the match.
India Struggles Under Australian Pressure
In reply to Australia’s mammoth total, the Indian team found themselves in a precarious position. By the end of their first innings, India had lost 5 wickets for just 164 runs, leaving them in a vulnerable state. The Australian bowlers capitalized on the pitch conditions, restricting the Indian batters and giving their team a commanding lead.
Steve Smith Breaks Record Against India
Smith’s knock of 140 runs was not just a personal milestone but also a historic achievement in Test cricket. With this innings, Steve Smith became the batter with the most centuries against India in Test cricket history.
The Boxing Day century marked Smith’s 34th career Test ton and his 11th century against India, achieved in just 43 innings. This surpassed England’s Joe Root, who has scored 10 centuries against India.
Smith’s consistent performances against India have solidified his reputation as one of the greatest Test batters of the modern era.
Series Hangs in the Balance
The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, consisting of five matches, is currently tied at 1-1. India claimed victory in the opening Test, while Australia fought back to win the second. The third Test ended in a draw, making the fourth match a pivotal contest for both sides.
As the series unfolds, both teams are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for the prestigious trophy. Steve Smith’s record-breaking innings has undoubtedly tilted the momentum in Australia’s favor, but cricket is a game of uncertainties, and India could still make a comeback.
Conclusion
Steve Smith’s extraordinary batting and his ability to deliver under pressure have once again proven why he is considered a modern-day great. As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy heads toward its conclusion, all eyes will be on how both teams adapt and strategize in this thrilling series.
