As India braces for a crucial Test under the Adelaide lights, these Australian batters could shine and test the visitors with their proven prowess at this historic venue
Get ready for more than an exhilarating match at the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2024. With India on a high following a decisive 295-run victory in Perth, the pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval promises to be dramatic as the hosts attempt to recover. In fine form, Virat Kohli will definitely be a significant figure, but Australia has an extensive list of batters who have engraved their names in Adelaide's history.
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Let's look deeper at four Australian batters who have had outstanding performances at Adelaide Oval and potentially cause problems for India.
Travis Head has thrived in Adelaide, and his record there reflects his versatility and domination.
In 2022, Head's 175 off 219 balls against the West Indies was a display of unadulterated aggressiveness. His 20 boundaries helped Australia reach a massive total of 511, resulting in a thumping 419-run win.
Head smashed another ton against the Caribbeans at Adelaide in 2024. Asolid 119 off 225 balls showcased Head's ability to perform under pressure. His efforts led Australia to a comfortable 10-wicket victory.India has always had a headache with Head, and with two centuries at this venue in less than two years, India will need a sharp strategy to curtail his impact.
It is no secret that Labuschagne is in love with Adelaide. His patience and technique have frequently changed games to Australia's advantage.
In 2022,partnering Head in a run-fest against the West Indies, Labuschagne's calm 163 off 305 balls was the backbone of Australia's innings, which won by 419 runs.
Labuschagne's 162 off 238 balls versus PAK in 2019 was an innings-pacing clinic. His efforts resulted in a decisive win of an innings and 48 runs. Labuschagne's ability to bat for extended periods of time is expected to wear down India's bowling assault.
Few can forget Steven Smith's incredible unbeaten 162 against India in 2014. The elegance, concentration, and shot selection in that knock are still discussed.
Smith's knock was crucial to Australia's 48-run triumph. Due to his cool and field-maneuvring skills against a fierce Indian attack, Smith was practically unplayable. As Smith takes guard again in Adelaide, Indian bowlers will undoubtedly remember his earlier heroics.
In 2016, Usman Khawaja's innings of 145 runs off 465 balls against South Africa stood out as one of the most gruelling performances ever witnessed at the Adelaide Oval.
Over two days, Khawaja demonstrated remarkable focus and perseverance, leading Australia to a 7-wicket victory. This innings highlighted the importance of a defensive strategy in cricket. Khawaja's ability to withstand pressure during challenging situations makes him a formidable player, especially when using the pink ball.
While India's bowling is confident following their success in Perth, Adelaide's surface and lighting provide distinct obstacles. With Head, Labuschagne, Smith, and Khawaja having such impressive histories here, India's bowlers must bring their A-game to preserve their momentum in this high-stakes series.
The Adelaide Oval has hosted some of Australia's most legendary performances. Will the Indian bowlers rise to the occasion, or will the Australian batters continue their dominance? We will find out soon enough.
