Sat Dec 07 12:43:07 UTC 2024: ## IT Raids, Cricket Thriller, and Political Tensions Mark a Busy Day in India

**Motihari, Bihar:** A dramatic series of Income Tax (IT) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids in Motihari sent shockwaves through the region today. The raids reportedly involved a large contingent of officials arriving in 40 vehicles. Further details remain scarce, but the scale of the operation suggests a significant investigation is underway. Separately, a threatening message was sent to a state defense minister demanding ₹50 lakh within three days.

**Ranchi, Jharkhand:** Security preparations for the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly session are underway, with the state government actively preparing a supplementary budget.

**Adelaide, Australia:** Day two of the second India-Australia Test match saw a gripping contest. India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, made early inroads, dismissing key Australian batsmen Steve Smith (2 runs) and Nathan McSweeney (39 runs). Bumrah’s exceptional performance put immense pressure on the Australian batting line-up. Australia, resuming at 86/1, reached 103/3 before stumps.

India’s batting performance, however, remained a cause for concern. The team crumbled against Australia’s pace attack, with Mitchell Starc taking a career-best 6 wickets for 48 runs. Only Nitish Kumar Reddy’s 42 runs provided any significant resistance as India were bowled out for 180. Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed on the first ball of the innings, and key players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma failed to make an impact. Assistant bowling coach Ryan ten Doeschate expressed hope for a comeback, emphasizing the importance of early wickets for India on Day 3.

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