Team India was once reeling at 139-7 when all the star batters were back in the dugout in the ongoing 2nd game of the 4-match series in Delhi. Nathan Lyon, the shrewd off-spinner took his 8th five-wicket haul against India and wreaked havoc. Ravichandran Ashwin & Axar Patel steadied the ship for the hosts as the duo waited for loose deliveries.

In the last session of day 2, Ashwin and Axar unleashed an attack on the opposition. Steven Smith & Matt Renshaw gave reprieves to Axar Patel & Ravichandran Ashwin. Axar was getting into the groove as the southpaw was seen smashing spinners all around the park. The duo registered an invaluable 100 runs partnership which frustrated the bowlers.

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At the end of 80 overs, India’s score was 252-7 and they were trailing by only 11 runs. Axar Patel’s score was 67 runs whereas Ashwin was on 37 runs. Skipper Pat Cummins decided to take the new ball immediately and on the 2nd ball of the 81st over Matt Renshaw took a stunner at square leg. Ashwin & Axar were involved in a massive partnership of 114 runs. Ravichandran Ashwin was seen playing second fiddle. India’s score after his dismissal was 253-8.

Here is the video of the catch from Matt Renshaw:

 

The Aussies would be aware of Shami’s hitting ability as any sort of lead would’ve changed the complexion of the match. It was looking unlikely as Pat Cummins would bowl another over as we have seen that the spinners are getting help with the new ball. It would be interesting to see how Axar Patel bats from now onwards.

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Australia would be bothered as David Warner won’t bat in 2nd innings as he has been ruled out due to a concussion. The replacement Renshaw has a golden opportunity to stake a strong case for himself at the top of the order where Warner has received a lot of flak for his poor form.