On day two of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australia's duo of Travis Head and Steve Smith put on a stellar partnership of 241 runs to lift their team to a mammoth total of 405/7. Smith, who has been struggling with form, finally broke his drought and added another record to his name. Head, who has been in top form against India, continues to dominate with the bat in the ongoing series. India faces a huge challenge ahead as Australia takes control of the match.
Travis Head and Steve Smith Star in Australia's Domination
Background
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a four-match Test series between Australia and India, played for the famous trophy named after former Australian captain Allan Border and former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar. The third Test of the current series was held in Indore, India, from March 1 to 5, 2023.
Australia's Stellar Partnership
On the second day of the third Test, Australian batsmen Travis Head and Steve Smith forged a magnificent partnership of 241 runs for the third wicket. Head, who has been in exceptional form against India, scored 129 off 229 deliveries, while Smith, who had been struggling, contributed a well-made 122 off 299 balls.
Head's century was his second in the series, following his match-winning 175 in the first Test. Smith's century, on the other hand, was his first in Tests since January 2023. The pair's partnership helped Australia post a massive total of 405/7 declared, putting India under significant pressure.
India's Challenges
India faces a daunting task in responding to Australia's total. The hosts ended Day 3 on 84/3, with a deficit of 321 runs. Indian batters have struggled against Australia's spin attack, particularly Nathan Lyon, who has taken 10 wickets in the match so far.
Top 5 FAQs
Who is Travis Head? Travis Head is a 29-year-old Australian cricketer who bats left-handed and bowls right-arm off-spin. He has played 61 Tests and 85 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for Australia.
How did Steve Smith perform in the third Test? Steve Smith scored a crucial century in the third Test, his first in Tests since January 2023. His knock helped Australia post a big total and put India under pressure.
What is Australia's current position in the series? Australia leads the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series 2-0 after winning the first two Tests in Nagpur and Delhi.
What is the significance of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy? The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is one of the most prestigious rivalries in Test cricket, with both Australia and India being recognized as two of the world's top teams.
When is the next match of the series? The fourth and final Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be played in Ahmedabad, India, from March 9 to 13, 2023.
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