Day three started with realistic hope for Indian team and for many fans as well. What unfolded could be described as the worst day of Indian Cricket of this century. India lost nine wickets in 100 minutes and lost the match as well.
India were bowled out for 36 and match could not last for even three full days Batting for longer periods is always the key but keeping out good balls is always key. None of batsman was able to get into double figure. As Kohli said in post match conference, Australian bowlers bowled the lengths of first day but unlike Day 1 every edge carried to keeper and every catch was held.
It looked highlights of a live match the way wickets were tumbling. Such was the fall of wickets that on score of 15 India lost four wickets to slip to fifteen for loss of five wickets. Australia were touch fuller in their lengths and attacked the off stump line for which Indian batsman had no answers. Wickets fell like pack of cards and every ball had a wicket on it.
To make matters worse Shami got hit on the forearm and was retired hurt. He could be out for some time which will again hamper India’s chances going forward. Where India goes from here? Without Kohli task gets difficult. It’s not first time such thing has happened and nor will be last. It has happened to teams and bigger test lies in where teams go from such collapse.
In fourth test of 2015 Ashes, Broad annihilated Aussies with a spell of 8/15 to bundled them for 60. England went on to won the match by an innings. Australia bounced back from the disappointment and won the next match comprehensively .
Will India be able to bounce back and defeat Aussies that needs to be seen. It looks improbable but not impossible. If Shami does not recover in time one from Siraj or Navdeep will make into playing X1 for Melbourne test. Will Prithvi be given another chance or Gill will take his place. Rahul for Virat or Pant will come in. India have selection issues to sort out and also have to show the resolve to fight for longer periods at Melbourne.
Kohli has stated that “nothing alarming and confident of team bouncing back”, whether his words will be translated in performance that will be seen on boxing day. Test of character awaits team India.
