Rohit Sharma on being asked if England were rightly awarded the World Cup title in 2019
Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved.
Published Nov 22, 2024, 12:31 pm IST
India barely managed to crawl past the 100-run against a relentless Australian bowling attack. The absence of seasoned campaigners like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane was palpable as Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Marsh tormented the Indian lineup. Fans couldn’t help but reminisce about the duo, who are now offering insights from the commentary box instead of their usual stoic presence at the crease.
Pant's lone fight amid the collapse
Amid a top-order failure, Rishabh Pant stood tall with his characteristic grit and flair. He endured the Aussie pace barrage, including a fiery spell from Mitchell Starc, and capitalized on a rare dropped catch by Pat Cummins. Pant's ability to counter-attack gave India a glimmer of hope, especially after debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy joined him to stabilize the innings. Their partnership, although scratchy, ensured India crossed the 100-run mark. A fuller delivery on a straighter line swings away late, catching Rishabh Pant's outside edge as he tries to flick. Steven Smith at second slip grabs a sharp catch, ending Pant's valiant knock of 37 off 78. India now reeling at 121/7.
However, it wasn’t smooth sailing. Starc's probing deliveries and Marsh's crucial breakthroughs left India reeling. A spirited effort from Pant brought some respite, but the road ahead remains arduous for the hosts.
See Also: AUS vs IND, Perth Test: Was KL Rahul really out? Explained
Fans yearn for Pujara and Rahane's stability
As the wickets kept tumbling, fans turned nostalgic, recalling the resilience of Pujara and Rahane. Social media was abuzz with comparisons, with many lamenting the absence of the experienced duo in the lineup. Their commentary, insightful as ever, added salt to the wounds of fans yearning for their calmness under pressure.
The current Indian batting order may have talent, but the lack of experience was evident against the likes of Starc and Cummins. As India inch forward, the onus lies on Pant and the lower order to salvage what remains of a challenging innings.
See Also: IPL 2025 to start on March 14; Dates revealed for next three seasons
Where is the number 3 of this Indian team who defends for 50 over and softens the ball so that the likes of Pant can come and play their shots for the next 30 overs? Where is the wall of India? Who is the Dravid, Pujara Rahane of this team #INDvsAUS #BGT2025#Kohli
— MadMax (@BullsVsBearss) November 22, 2024
Two left-handers, two ducks, and Paddikal’s struggles finally come to an end… Trust me, this tour will constantly remind you of Rahane and Pujara at every moment. pic.twitter.com/6rBtEi439Z
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) November 22, 2024
Pujji should be allowed to step down from com box to the crease for gods sake ,For every Pant to win you games, you need a Pujara to stand like a rock at the other end. Sadly we don't .
— Jaammii.. (@Jaammiing) November 22, 2024
INDIA HAVE SCORED MORE THAN 36 RUNS IN AUSTRALIA. 🤯😳
— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) November 22, 2024
national animal of australia - kangaroo
— Xavier Uncle (@xavierunclelite) November 22, 2024
national animal of india - duck
Australia thought they can get India out under 50? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Let's laugh at the Aussies.
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 22, 2024
When the whole team is playing like they've never seen a cricket bat but you're just a chill guy standing in the middle with the number 17 jersey on. pic.twitter.com/I1Ay5vylKi
— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire) November 22, 2024
Tags:
Border Gavaskar TrophyRishabh PantTestPerth StadiumAUS vs IND