On Day 2 of India’s warm-up match against the Australia Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, Indian bowlers delivered a commanding performance, restricting the hosts to 240 runs in a rain-affected encounter. Initially slated as a two-day fixture, the match was reduced to 46 overs per side due to rain interruptions.
Despite the shortened format, India’s bowlers adapted brilliantly to the pink ball, showcasing exceptional skill and precision. After winning the toss, Rohit Sharma opted to bowl first, a decision that reaped early rewards. Mohammed Siraj set the tone with a fiery opening spell, unsettling the Aussie openers and drawing early breakthroughs.
However, Sam Konstas stood tall amidst the early chaos, crafting a resilient knock of 107 runs off 97 balls. His partnership with Jack Clayton stabilized the innings briefly, but the middle order crumbled under sustained pressure from India’s bowlers.
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Hanno Jacobs provided some resistance late in the innings with a composed 61 off 60 deliveries, but his dismissal marked a turning point. Facing Washington Sundar in the 43rd over, Jacobs attempted to drive a fuller delivery towards mid-wicket. Ravindra Jadeja, stationed in the region, showcased his trademark athleticism.
What a catch by Jadeja. Prime minister’s XI end their inning at 240-9#INDvsAUS#jadeja pic.twitter.com/wWC5BjN1qY
— KINSHU KUMAR (@KumarKinshu7531) December 1, 2024
Sprinting to his right, he executed a spectacular leaping catch, bringing an end to the PM-XI’s innings. India’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Siraj and supported by Harshit Rana, was exceptional. They effectively utilized the pink ball, extracting swing and bounce to keep the Australian batters in check throughout the innings.
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Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with crucial contributions, maintaining pressure in the middle overs. As of now, Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul have begun the chase, aiming to capitalize on the strong platform laid by their bowlers. With a target of 241, India appears well-positioned to end the warm-up match on a high note.
