If you thought that the Pune Test was just a one-off bad game for India and the team would excel at Bangalore, then you are bound to be terribly mistaken. On a ground that is known for its penchant for high scores and favouring the batsmen, India now finds themselves in a precarious position after being rolled over for a paltry first innings score of 189. Australia made a solid start as the openers raked up 40 without losing a wicket at stumps.
For India, it was just a one-man show as opener KL Rahul batted with tremendous grit and determination on a track that assisted the spinners massively. Rahul scored 90 of the total runs and was eventually dismissed by Nathan Lyon, who bagged 8 wickets.
Post the day’s play, Rahul however, admitted that R. Ashwin was quite capable of running through the Australian lineup on the second day. “Initially the ball was coming on to the bat really well,” said Rahul. “The wicket was on the damp side once the spinners came on in the first session and that’s why they were getting some spin so it was difficult to play the drives. Once the ball got older and there was considerable rough, Lyon exploited it quite well,” Rahul added.
“We still have 4 days in the game and with the cracks opening up, it is getting only difficult for batting.” “Ash (Ashwin) is a top class bowler and once he gets a couple of wickets, he can run through the Australian lineup,” the Indian opener said the side’s hopes being pinned on ace spinner R. Ashwin.
With Australia less than 150 runs away from India’s first innings score, the first session will be the key for the hosts. A stellar show from the spin twins could potentially see India making a comeback into the game. If not, the game or even the series could be well gone.