Ravi Shastri Warns India Ahead of Pink-Ball Test Against Australia
Ravi Shastri, a former India head coach, believes the “36 all out” in the last pink-ball Test, in Adelaide, won’t affect the second Test of the ongoing series against Australia. He cautioned India about the pink ball’s unpredictability. Conditions can quickly swing the game. The high-stakes day-night Test begins on December 6 at the Adelaide Oval, with India holding a 1-0 lead.
Shastri’s Thoughts on “36 All Out” and Pink-Ball Challenges
On the latest ICC Review episode, Shastri downplayed the impact of India’s collapse in the 2020 pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Despite that low, Shastri is confident. The Indian side has the edge after winning the series opener.
“I don’t think it will play any role but it should be at the back of their minds because things can happen quickly with a pink ball. If things don’t go your way and the bowling is good, things can happen fast. India are 1-0 ahead and this should put the players in a good frame of mind. It is a big opportunity for India to put more pressure on Australia,” he said.
He added that the 1-0 lead puts India in a strong position but stressed the need for caution. “This is a big opportunity for India to put more pressure on Australia. A win here could potentially seal the series.”
Australia’s Strong Pink-Ball Record in Adelaide
Australia is unbeaten in day-night Tests at the Adelaide Oval. It enters the second Test with that record. The hosts have used the unique conditions of pink-ball cricket. They have relied on their experienced pace attack.
In their last pink-ball match in Adelaide, India was bowled out for 36 on Day 3 after a 50-run first-innings lead. Australian pacers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins were instrumental. Hazlewood took 5/8 and Cummins 4/21.
Australia is dominant in pink-ball cricket. But, after being bowled out for 104 and 238 in the first Test of this series, it faces pressure. India won that match.
Key Talking Points Ahead of the Second Test
- India’s Advantage: Leading 1-0, India can exploit Australia’s weak batting. They can also end Australia’s unbeaten pink-ball streak in Adelaide.
- Australia’s Strength: The home team’s pace attack is a threat. It is led by Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, especially under lights with the pink ball.
- Unpredictable Conditions: Shastri’s warning about the pink ball shows its unpredictability. It shows the need for discipline in batting and bowling.
Statistical Highlights from the Previous Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide
- India’s Lowest Total: 36 all out in 2020, with Josh Hazlewood taking 5/8.
- Australia’s Adelaide Record: Undefeated in pink-ball Tests at the Adelaide Oval.
- First Test Results: Australia bowled out for 104 and 238 in the series opener, conceding a 1-0 lead to India.
