Sydney Test: India Takes 145-Run Lead at Stumps on Day 2

In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, the second day of the fifth Test between India and Australia at Sydney concluded with India holding a 145-run lead. At stumps, India stood at 141/6 in their second innings, having already secured a slim first-innings lead of 4 runs.

Among India’s batters, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant delivered a remarkable performance with a whirlwind 61 off 33 balls, which included four sixes and six boundaries. Pant's innings provided much-needed momentum after India found themselves in a precarious position at 78/4. He, along with Ravindra Jadeja, attempted to stabilize the innings through a 46-run partnership. However, most of the other Indian batters failed to contribute significantly, with wickets falling at regular intervals.

Earlier, India got off to a decent start with an opening stand of 42 runs. However, a series of quick dismissals derailed their innings. Yashasvi Jaiswal managed 22 runs, while KL Rahul and Shubman Gill contributed 13 runs each. Virat Kohli and Nitish Kumar Reddy added 6 and 4 runs, respectively. At the close of play, Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 8, alongside Washington Sundar, who was on 6.

For Australia, Scott Boland was the standout performer with the ball, claiming four key wickets. Pat Cummins and debutant Webster chipped in with one wicket each.

Earlier in the day, Australia resumed their first innings at 9/1 but could only manage to post 181 runs before being bowled out. Debutant Webster emerged as their top scorer with a crucial half-century, scoring 57 runs. Steve Smith added 33, while Sam Constance and Alex Carey contributed 23 and 21 runs, respectively. Despite these efforts, the Australian innings lacked substantial partnerships, leading to their relatively low total.

On the bowling front, India’s pace attack excelled, with Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna picking up three wickets each. Jasprit Bumrah and Nitish Kumar Reddy bagged two wickets apiece, ensuring that Australia did not build a sizeable first-innings total.

India will look to extend their lead further when play resumes on Day 3, while Australia will aim to strike early to keep the game within reach.