IND vs AUS: Former cricketers Ravi Shastri and Michael Vaughan have raised concerns about the unity within the Australian cricket team after pacer Josh Hazlewood’s remarks about the team’s loss to India in Perth. Hazlewood suggested that the batters were largely to blame for the defeat, which was Australia’s first-ever loss at the venue.
Warner Responds To Hazlewood’s Comments
David Warner, the recently retired Aussie star and now a commentator, criticized Hazlewood’s comments, calling them “unwarranted.” Warner emphasized that senior players have a duty to support the team, especially the struggling batters, rather than shift blame. His comments point to the importance of unity and collective responsibility in team dynamics.
Vaughan Highlights The Divide Between Batters And Bowlers
Michael Vaughan expressed concern over the public division between the batters and bowlers, something he has never witnessed in Australian cricket. Vaughan suggested that Hazlewood’s comments reflect a lack of spirit and togetherness within the team, a sentiment that could weaken Australia’s mental approach to the game.
Shastri Observes Mental Cracks In The Australian Camp
Ravi Shastri, former Indian head coach, agreed with Vaughan, noting that the Indian team now seems mentally superior to Australia, even on their home turf. Shastri remarked that such comments from Hazlewood may indicate internal cracks, giving India a mental advantage in the ongoing series.
India Dominates In Perth, Secures Huge Win
India defeated Australia by a massive 295 runs in the second Test at Perth’s Optus Stadium. After dismissing India for just 150 runs in their first innings, Australia was unable to put up a strong reply, managing only 104 runs. India’s second innings, highlighted by a brilliant 161 from Yashasvi Jaiswal and an unbeaten 100 from Virat Kohli, set Australia a daunting target of 534 runs. Australia was bowled out for 238 in their chase, with Bumrah and Siraj leading the attack.
Bumrah’s Match-winning Performance
Jasprit Bumrah’s outstanding performance with the ball, taking 8 wickets in the match, earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award. His efforts were crucial in India’s resounding victory, as Australia struggled throughout the match, both with the bat and ball.
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