Sun Jan 05 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## India’s Sydney Test Crumbles After Stunning Collapse
**Sydney, Australia:** India’s hopes of victory in the Sydney Test match evaporated dramatically on day three, following a stunning batting collapse. Despite taking a slender 4-run lead after dismissing Australia on day two, India’s second innings imploded, ending on a paltry 157 runs. This capitulation was further compounded by the absence of star bowler Jasprit Bumrah due to a back spasm, leaving India’s bowling attack significantly weakened.
The Australian response was brutal. They smashed 26 runs in the first two overs – a record for any team against India – and 35 runs in the first three, another record for the hosts. This blistering start left India facing a near-impossible task of salvaging the match. While India managed to take two wickets by the time of writing, Australia needs only 110 runs to win.
Rishabh Pant top-scored for India with 61 runs in the second innings, but no other batsman managed to reach 30. Scott Boland spearheaded Australia’s bowling attack, taking 6 wickets, while Pat Cummins claimed 3. Bumrah’s absence was a significant blow, with teammate Prasidh Krishna confirming a back spasm prevented him from bowling.
The devastating collapse leaves India with a monumental task ahead, with their chances of winning the match looking extremely slim.
First Piper 