One hundred and forty nine runs undefeated partnership for the fifth wicket between the inform Steve Smith and the belligerent Glen Maxwell not only rescued the Australians from a certain collapse it looked, but also reversed the prospects of the third Test match which began at yet another new venue Ranchi today. Day one totally belonged to this pair, who entertained the crowds with some scintilating batting.
Now Indians will have to work harder tomorrow first to separate these two and then bowl the tourists out before they go on to make big first innings total.
Aussies were off to a good positive start on a wicket which surprised everyone’s anticipations, playing nicely. David Warner and Renshaw played some good strokes before Warner once again not capitalising on the good start, falling to Jadeja’s juicy full toss.
Renshaw looked good against the spinners, but his technique against the pacers was different today as he was dismissed by Umesh Yadav after the later repeatedly beat him – once nearly got him out in the same over he got the wicket.
Shaun Marsh was a failure today, while Hanscomb, despite looking in decent touch could not make use of a good start he got.
Then began the drama as Glen Maxwell who joined his captain Smith played a gem of an innings – perhaps the best Test knock so far in his career. Although he dominated the later part of the ongoing partnership, he played a cool game of cricket in the initial stages- quite uncharacteristic of his. After he settled down and steadied the nature of the wicket, he hit the bowlers around, playing some glorious strokes to the delight of good crowd.
Smith was playing his natural game from the time he arrived and hit his second century of the series. If they continue the same form tomorrow it will be difficult for the Indian bowlers, who except Umesh Yadav did not attract anyone.
But the bad news for India is, Virat Kolhi, who injured his shoulder while making a full length dive at long on, will be undergoing a scan test. And the status of the seriousness of the injury is not known yet. Hope it will not prevent him from taking further part in the match.
Mahavaadi Sudeer– DD Commentator
