CNN Central News and Network – ITDC India Express / ITDC News Bhopal Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine praised the Pat Cummins-led side for their remarkable ten-wicket victory against India in the pink-ball Test at the Adelaide Oval, leveling the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series 1-1.
After a crushing 295-run defeat in the opening Test in Perth, Australia made a resounding comeback, dominating India in all aspects of the game. Key performances from Pat Cummins (2-41 & 5-57), Mitchell Starc (6-48 & 2-60), Travis Head (140), and Marnus Labuschagne (64) played a pivotal role in securing the win.
“This is a harshly treated team at times, but they are one of the great teams. They’ve won everything except the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and they know that. I thought the way they responded under immense pressure was huge,” said Paine on SEN Radio.
He lauded the leadership of Pat Cummins, who took seven wickets across both innings, and Mitchell Starc, describing him as a “pink-ball wizard.” Paine also applauded Travis Head’s stunning 140 and Labuschagne’s resilience in a challenging final session on day one.
Crucial First-Day Efforts:
Australia ended day one at 86/1 after bowling India out for 180, with Labuschagne and Nathan McSweeney showing grit under the lights. Paine highlighted the duo’s efforts:
“Test cricket was at its absolute best in that last session. Marnus was fighting to save his career, and McSweeney, in his second Test, was trying to establish himself. It doesn’t get any better or harder than that.”
The victory serves as a massive confidence boost for Australia ahead of the third Test in Brisbane, starting on December 14. Paine believes the team’s performance sets the tone for the remainder of the series.
With momentum on their side, Australia now aims to build on this success and reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
