Again in cost as captain as a result of absence of Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli impressed his group to a spirited efficiency on Day 3 of the fifth Check in opposition to Australia in Sydney. Kohli, identified for his infectious vitality and sharp tactical acumen, was liable for marshaling the Indian troops in a high-stakes encounter. The legendary batter’s management got here to the fore as India claimed three essential wickets, leaving the match finely poised. Kohli, by no means one to draw back from participating with the gang, additionally entertained together with his witty ‘sandpaper’ banter, reminding the Australian followers of their notorious 2018 ball-tampering scandal.
Virat Kohli’s ‘Sandpaper’ gesture steals the highlight
Kohli, a grasp of the psychological sport, made headlines together with his animated gestures following Steve Smith’s dismissal. After Prasidh Krishna eliminated Smith for simply 4 runs, Kohli gestured in the direction of the Australian crowd with a “sandpaper” reference, alluding to the 2018 ball-tampering scandal that noticed Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft banned for his or her roles. The Cape City incident, the place sandpaper was used to change the ball’s situation, stays a sore level in Australian cricket historical past. Kohli’s cheeky celebration not solely fired up his teammates but additionally added a layer of drama to an already intense contest. The gesture underlined Kohli’s capacity to rile up opponents and the gang, holding the main focus squarely on his management.
Right here’s the video:
“What’s that about?”#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HwNZXhKW1S
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025
Additionally READ: “Ungli karte rahoge toh…” Rohit Sharma’s stern warning to Sam Konstas after a heated Jasprit Bumrah trade within the SCG Check – AUS vs IND
Indian bowlers strike as Prasidh Krishna shines
India’s bowling assault, lacking the providers of Bumrah as a consequence of damage issues, began on a shaky be aware, conceding extras and free deliveries within the morning session. Nonetheless, Prasidh Krishna stepped as much as ship a standout efficiency. The lanky pacer struck the primary blow by dismissing Sam Konstas, who tried a lofted shot solely to be caught at mid-off by Washington Sundar.
Krishna then produced two essential breakthroughs, eradicating Marnus Labuschagne for six and Smith for 4, leaving Australia reeling at 58/3. His constant line and sharp motion saved the Australian batters in examine, offering India with a lifeline. By lunch, Australia stood at 71/3, with Travis Head (5 not out) and Usman Khawaja (19 not out) on the crease, nonetheless requiring 91 runs to safe victory.
India bundled out as Australia eyes victory in Sydney
Earlier within the day, India’s decrease order failed so as to add considerably to their in a single day complete of 142/6, as they had been bowled out for 157. Pat Cummins and Scott Boland dominated the morning session, selecting two wickets every and leaving India with a modest goal to defend. The shortage of considerable contributions from the tail highlighted India’s batting struggles within the second innings, placing the bowlers below immense strain. Regardless of the low complete, Kohli’s animated presence and Krishna’s incisive spell ensured India remained within the battle. With 91 runs nonetheless wanted for Australia to win the Check and seal the sequence 3-1, the stage is about for a gripping finale on Day 4.