Team India are gearing up for the second Test against Australia in Adelaide, part of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. After their victorious outing in Perth, the management is faced with a crucial decision regarding the bowling line-up. While Washington Sudar played as the lone specialist in the first Test, the conditions in Adelaide and the dynamics of the pitch may prompt changes to the playing XI. Will India opt for additional spin options or will they continue their attack at a blistering pace?
Memories of India’s last Pink-Ball Test
It is worth noting that India’s last pink-ball Test at the Adelaide Oval was a forgettable outing, marked by their lowest-ever Test innings total of 36 runs. The dramatic collapse in December 2020 saw the then Virat Kohli-led side succumb to an eight-wicket defeat. With the current clash also being a day-night encounter, the team will aim to reverse the ghosts of the previous pink ball experience and write a different story.
The 6mm grass on the pitch excites the fast bowlers
Curator of Adelaide Damian Hough recently revealed that the pitch for the second Test will have six millimeters of grass, designed to make the pink ball more effective. This has raised expectations for a fast-bowling feast. With the pink ball known for improved movement under lights, the surface could be a haven for pacers from both sides. India’s twin rhythm of jasprit bumrahand Mohammed Siraj they will be keen to take advantage of these conditions, while Australia’s sailors are equally prepared for the challenge.
Also READ: AUS vs IND, Pink Ball Test: Adelaide Weather Forecast for all 5 days | Australia vs India 2024
Reason why spin will be crucial in the second test
Despite all the excitement surrounding grass on the pitch, spin will play a key role in the second Test, according to curator Hough. He highlighted the importance of including a specialist spinner for the Adelaide Test, highlighting the historic importance of spin at the venue. He stated that spin has consistently affected the game in Adelaide, making the selection of a frontline spinner an obvious choice rather than a debate. Howe pointed Nathan LyonHis remarkable record in Adelaide over the past decade as a testament to the venue’s suitability for spinners.
“Spin always plays a part in Adelaide. You must choose a front line spinner. So, it should never be an issue, should it? It always has to be. Nathan Lyon’s record over the last 10 years is second to none. He had very good success here. So always pick a spinner,” Hough said in a media interaction.
Hough also explained the role of pitch preparation in helping spin bowling. He said that leaving extra grass, including a variety known as ‘Maddy Grass’, gives spinners a chance to catch, bounce and turn. While acknowledging that Adelaide may not offer as much help to spinners as some other venues internationally, Hough reiterated that spin has traditionally been a crucial factor in Adelaide for decades, making it a fixture of the game at the venue.
“The idea of leaving that extra bit of grass and that Maddy grass is for the spinner to be able to buy off that mat and make it bite and grab and bounce. So we want spin to play a role in Adelaide. We may not be able to get as many as other places around the world, but spin traditionally plays a role and has for decades and decades.” Howe added.
