Virat Kohli & Co. Must Restrict Australia to 420 or Less, Says Sunil Gavaskar
Australia ended Day 1 of the first Test against India at 354 for six. David Warner top-scored with 145 while Steve Smith remained unbeaten on 72.
Former India opener Sunil Gavaskar believes that India have a chance of salvaging the Adelaide Test only if they bowl out Australia for 420 or less in their first innings. (Match Report | Scorecard | Highlights)
"India must bowl out Australia for a score of 420 or 410. The first hour of the second day is crucial for both teams," Gavaskar told NDTV in an exclusive chat.
Riding on David Warner's 145, Australia ended first day's play at 354 for six. Gavaskar was all praise for the way Warner and skipper Michael Clarke batted against the seamers and the way they used their feet against the spinners. The duo put on 118 runs for the third wicket before Clarke retired hurt on 60 due to back problems.
"The Indian batsmen should learn from the application shown by Warner and Clarke. If Australia have a substantial score, their captain can keep attacking fields for the first 25-30 overs."
Speaking on Team India's batting line-up, Gavaskar pointed out how not having a genuine all-rounder has hurt India in the past and could be their downfall yet again.
"India does not have a quality all-rounder and that's why they are struggling. An all-rounder gives you that option as someone who can bowl and also be used as an extra batsman," he pointed out.
Karn Sharma on Tuesday became first Indian spinner in 24 years to make his debut outside the subcontinent. Gavaskar was impressed the way Karn bowled and said Virat Kohli made a brave move by including him in the playing XI.
"Playing Karn Sharma was a great move. I liked how he kept his head up despite Warner and Clarke going after him. One has to remember there is absolutely nothing in this pitch for him."
Ishant Sharma recorded figures of one for 56 in 20 overs. Gavaskar was happy that the 26-year-old did not try too many things and bowled well within his limitations. He feels that Ishant gauged the conditions well and realised that rushing in at full pace would not get him any rewards on such a surface.
"Ishant bowled well within himself. He did not get carried away and soon realised what the conditions would be like," said the former India skipper.