IND vs AUS 2nd Cricket Test Prediction

The second Test between India and Australia in the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to commence on December 6 at the iconic Adelaide Oval. This highly anticipated day-night Test promises to be a gripping encounter as both teams aim to assert their dominance.

Context Leading to the Match

India stunned the cricketing world with a resounding victory in the first Test at Perth, registering a record 295-run win. Despite missing key players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Mohammed Shami, India showcased a clinical performance. Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership and the team’s all-around effort set the tone for the series, granting them a 1-0 lead.

Australia v India 2024-25 | First Test | Day Four Highlights

As the action shifts to Adelaide, India is bolstered by the return of Rohit Sharma and the likely recovery of Shubman Gill, significantly enhancing their lineup.

Match Details

Date: Friday, December 6, 2024
Venue: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
Time: 9:30 AM (Local Time)
Series: Test 2 of 5 (India leads 1-0)

Team Analysis and Predictions

India’s Prospects

Under the captaincy of Jasprit Bumrah, India’s team has displayed a blend of resilience and firepower. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s record-breaking performance in the first Test laid a formidable foundation for the series. With a return to a spin-friendly Adelaide surface, India’s spinners could play a decisive role.

The batting lineup boasts a potent mix of experience and flair. Veterans like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul bring stability and class, while Rishabh Pant adds dynamism in the middle order. With Rohit Sharma returning to the fold, India’s top order will gain additional solidity.

The fast-bowling duo of Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will likely remain crucial, especially under the pink-ball conditions, where swing and seam movement under lights often become a game-changer.

Australia’s Prospects

Australia, led by Pat Cummins, will look to bounce back after their Perth debacle. The hosts will rely on their star-studded batting lineup, including Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, to counter India’s formidable bowling attack. Both batters need to step up after underwhelming performances in the first Test.

On the bowling front, Cummins will spearhead the attack alongside Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Early breakthroughs will be critical to halting India’s momentum. Nathan Lyon, Australia’s premier spinner, will also play a pivotal role, especially in breaking partnerships on a track that is expected to offer turn as the game progresses.

Key Players to Watch

India:

Virat Kohli: The former captain thrives in pressure situations and has an excellent record in Adelaide.
Jasprit Bumrah: With the pink ball, Bumrah’s accuracy and variations will be vital.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: After a stellar first Test, Jaiswal will look to build on his form.

Australia:

Steven Smith: His ability to anchor the innings will be critical for Australia.
Pat Cummins: Both with the ball and his tactical acumen as captain, Cummins will need to lead from the front.
Nathan Lyon: The off-spinner’s effectiveness against India’s lower order could tilt the balance.

Pitch and Conditions

Adelaide Oval’s pink-ball Tests have historically offered an intriguing contest between bat and ball. The pitch tends to provide assistance to pacers in the early sessions, while spinners often come into play as the match progresses. Under the lights, the pink ball is expected to swing significantly, making evening sessions especially challenging for batters.

Match Prediction

While India enters the contest with confidence from their commanding first-Test victory and the return of key players, Australia is expected to mount a fierce comeback. The pink-ball conditions at Adelaide historically favor disciplined bowling, and Australia’s home advantage cannot be underestimated.

Tip: Australia to win.