After Steve Smith’s commanding 140 helped Australia post a massive 474 in their first innings, India faced an early setback in their response. Rohit Sharma’s promotion to the top of the order didn’t go according to plan, as Pat Cummins dismissed him once again, continuing his dominance over the Indian opener.
KL Rahul then steadied the ship, but his resistance ended when he was clean bowled by a brilliant delivery from Cummins, a ball that could have outfoxed most batters in the world.
In tough conditions, India’s No. 4 Virat Kohli teamed up with Yashasvi Jaiswal to form a crucial partnership, fighting off the Australian bowlers in the final session. As the third-wicket stand passed the 100-run mark, a mix-up between the two led to a messy runout, shifting the momentum firmly in Australia’s favor.
Jaiswal had flicked a fuller ball towards mid-on and immediately set off for a run. However, Kohli was not prepared for it and signaled Jaiswal to return. The lack of communication led to Jaiswal’s dismissal for 82, and India soon lost a couple more wickets, ending Day 2 at 164/5.
The runout incident became a major talking point, even sparking an on-air verbal exchange between pundits Sanjay Manjrekar and Irfan Pathan during the Star Sports Hindi broadcast.
Heated Argument Between Sanjay Manjrekar And Irfan Pathan, Sanjay Manjrekar Was Defaming Virat Kohli While Irfan Pathan Was Defending Virat Kohli ( On Yashasvi Jaiswal Run Out)#INDvsAUS #ViratKohli #YashasviJaiswal#AUSvINDIA pic.twitter.com/8YmOcA8JyL
— Harsh 17 (@harsh03443) December 27, 2024
Manjrekar criticized Kohli for ball-watching, while Irfan offered a more measured opinion, which was met with frustration from Manjrekar, who repeatedly interrupted him. The exchange, seen by many as unprofessional, ignited a divided response on social media.