Fri Dec 06 20:51:50 UTC 2024: ## Starc’s Pink Ball Masterclass Shatters India in Adelaide
**Adelaide, Australia:** Mitchell Starc produced a devastating spell of fast bowling on Day 1 of the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test, dismantling India’s batting lineup and leaving them reeling on a paltry 180 runs. The left-arm quick claimed a stunning 6 for 48, his 15th five-wicket haul in Test cricket and his fourth five-for in a day-night Test – the most by any pace bowler.
Starc’s dominance began from the very first ball, dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal for a golden duck – a swift payback after Jaiswal’s sledging in Perth. He then accounted for key Indian batsmen KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, triggering a mini-collapse just before tea. His relentless pressure continued into the second session, where he dismissed both Nitish Reddy and R Ashwin with searing yorkers, further exposing India’s fragility.
The Australian paceman’s performance also marked a significant personal milestone. He became only the fourth Australian bowler to achieve over 350 wickets across all formats in home conditions, joining legendary figures Shane Warne and Brett Lee in an elite club. His day-night dominance further extended his lead over fellow pace bowlers Trent Boult and Josh Hazlewood in five-wicket hauls under the lights.
India’s first innings total of 180 represents the lowest ever first innings score in a pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval, highlighting the sheer effectiveness of Starc’s spell and the overall Australian bowling attack. Australia will be looking to capitalise on this strong start to gain a significant advantage in the match.
First Piper 