Brisbane [Australia], December 15: Steve Smith and Travis Head’s commanding centuries put Australia firmly in control at the end of Day 2 in the third Test against India at The Gabba in Brisbane, despite a stellar 5-wicket performance from Jasprit Bumrah.
Australia finished the day at 405/7, with Alex Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) at the crease. Smith (101) and Head (152) built a remarkable 241-run partnership, both scoring centuries as the Australian total surpassed 400.
After resuming at 234/3, Smith and Head continued their impressive run in the final session, adding quick boundaries and bringing up a 200-run stand off 252 balls. Smith reached his 33rd Test century, his first in 25 innings, but was dismissed shortly after for 101 by Bumrah, who also removed Head for 152, breaking a solid stand.
Bumrah’s efforts, including dismissals of Mitchell Marsh and Marnus Labuschagne earlier, helped India claw back into the contest, but Carey and Starc’s resistance ensured Australia passed the 400-run mark.
Australia’s total, built largely on Head’s aggressive century and Smith’s anchor role, was bolstered by careful partnerships throughout the day. Bumrah’s impressive 5/72 helped India remain in the game, but Australia’s dominance at the crease kept them in control.
Brief Scores: Australia: 405/7 (Travis Head 152, Steve Smith 101, Jasprit Bumrah 5/72).