The much-awaited second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia will take place at the Adelaide Oval. This match is a day-night Test, played with the pink ball under lights. For Indian fans, the match brings a mix of excitement and anticipation, especially after India’s stunning win in Perth.
The pink-ball Test in Adelaide holds historical significance, as the venue was the site of India’s infamous 36 all-out debacle during the 2020 series. Despite that setback, India went on to win that series, showcasing resilience. This time, with confidence riding high after their remarkable 295-run win in Perth, Team India will look to avenge their 2020 defeat.
Adelaide Pitch Report and Conditions Favor Fast Bowlers
Adelaide Oval’s pitch curator Damien Hough has confirmed that a 6mm grass layer will be left on the pitch for the second Test. This will assist fast bowlers throughout the game. The pink ball’s extra movement under lights could further add to the bowlers’ dominance.
Hough also indicated weather challenges, with a chance of storms on the opening day. However, clearer skies are expected from Saturday onwards, ensuring uninterrupted play for most of the match.
Head-to-Head Record: India vs Australia in Tests
India’s track record in Australia has improved significantly over the last decade. Out of 53 Tests played Down Under, India has won 10 and lost 30, with 5 of these wins coming in the last two tours, including the ongoing series.
When it comes to pink-ball Tests, Australia has been dominant, winning 11 out of 12 matches. Their sole loss came against the West Indies in 2024. India, on the other hand, has won 3 out of 4 day-night Tests, with their only defeat coming in Adelaide in 2020.
India’s Probable Playing XI for the 2nd Test
India is likely to make a few changes for the Adelaide Test. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are expected to return to the side, while young players Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel may sit out. Ravindra Jadeja could also replace Washington Sundar to strengthen the bowling attack.
India’s Probable XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Rishabh Pant
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Nitish Reddy
- Washington Sundar/Ravindra Jadeja
- Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
Australia, meanwhile, has confirmed its playing XI, with Scott Boland replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood.
Match Timings and Toss Information
The match will start at 9:30 AM IST, with the toss scheduled for 9:00 AM IST.
How to Watch India vs Australia 2nd Test
Live Telecast: The second Test can be watched live on the Star Sports Network.
Live Streaming: Fans can stream the match live on Disney+ Hotstar.
Weather Updates: Rain Threat on Opening Day
Adelaide’s weather could pose a challenge on the first day, with forecasts predicting possible storms. Curator Damien Hough expressed concerns about Friday’s conditions but assured that the rest of the match is expected to proceed without interruptions.
As the skies clear up by Saturday morning, fans can look forward to uninterrupted cricket action for the remainder of the Test.
India’s fightback after their dramatic Perth win and Australia’s pink-ball dominance set the stage for an electrifying contest at Adelaide Oval.
