Sydney [Australia], January 4: On the second day of the fifth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India, Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley shared his thoughts on the series. With the Baggy Greens leading the series 2-1, the fifth and final match is being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Hockley expressed his admiration for the series, highlighting the exceptional quality of cricket, the electric atmosphere, and the overwhelming support for both teams. He also noted the record-breaking attendance, with more fans attending this series than ever before. “It’s really come down to this deciding fifth Test, and I think it’s fantastic that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is now a five-match series. It elevates it to the level of the English series, and everything is on the line for the players. The weather in Sydney couldn’t be more perfect for this final Test,” Hockley said. He added, “The series has truly brought the cricketing world together. I’ve received messages from all over the world. This is Test Cricket at its absolute best.”
On Day 2 of the Sydney Test, Australia was dismissed for 181 runs just before Tea. Key contributions came from debutant Beau Webster, who made 57 runs off 107 balls, Steven Smith (33 runs from 57 balls), Sam Konstas (23 runs from 38 balls), and Alex Carey (21 runs from 36 balls). For India, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna each took three wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah and Nitish Kumar Reddy claimed two wickets apiece.
Earlier, on Day 1, India won the toss and chose to bat. The Indian top order struggled once again, with Virat Kohli falling for 17 after continuing his issues with deliveries outside the off-stump. However, Rishabh Pant (40 off 98 balls), Ravindra Jadeja (26 off 95 balls), and captain Jasprit Bumrah (22 off 17 balls) fought back to push India to 185 all out in 72.2 overs. Scott Boland was the standout bowler for Australia, taking 4/31, while Mitchell Starc claimed 3/49 and Pat Cummins took 2/37.