Sat Jan 04 02:00:00 UTC 2025: ## India’s Bowlers Restrict Australia on Day 2 in Sydney Test
**Sydney, Australia** – India fought back strongly on day two of the fifth and final Test against Australia, restricting the hosts to 101/5 at lunch despite a first-innings collapse of their own. Australia, who bowled India out for a paltry 185 on day one, still trail by 84 runs.
India’s impressive bowling performance was spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, who each claimed two wickets. Prasidh Krishna also contributed, dismissing the dangerous Steve Smith. Alex Carey and Beau Webster remained unbeaten at the lunch break for Australia.
The day’s play began with a continuation of the tension sparked on day one between Jasprit Bumrah and young Australian batsman Sam Konstas. The altercation, which involved some time-wasting tactics by Konstas, ended with Siraj dismissing Konstas himself. Bumrah also added to the Australian woes by bowling Marnus Labuschagne.
India’s batting struggles continued from day one, where a stunning performance from Scott Boland (4/31) and Mitchell Starc (3/49) decimated their batting order, including several low scores from key players KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill. The absence of captain Rohit Sharma, who was dropped from the squad, did not solve India’s batting woes.
While Australia started aggressively, India’s disciplined bowling, especially from Siraj and Bumrah, ensured that the momentum remained in the balance. The pitch, described as lively and conducive to seam bowling, continues to offer assistance to the bowlers, making a substantial lead crucial for either side. The match is finely poised, with the remainder of the day promising more exciting cricket.
First Piper 