Following a disappointing, rain-affected start to the One-Day International series in Perth, where batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma struggled to find their rhythm, all attention now turns to the crucial second ODI between India and Australia at Adelaide Oval on Thursday.
Australia currently holds a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after their convincing seven-wicket victory in the opener. This puts immense pressure on India, who must bounce back swiftly to keep their series hopes alive against the formidable hosts.
India’s batting lineup faltered in Perth, largely due to frequent rain interruptions and a disciplined Australian bowling attack. KL Rahul’s resilient 38 was the only significant contribution as the Men in Blue posted a modest 136 for 9 in a reduced 26-over contest. In response, Mitchell Marsh’s unbeaten 46 powered Australia to a comfortable chase of 131 (a DLS-adjusted target). With the series on the line, India’s top-order batsmen are under immense scrutiny to rediscover their form, ideally supported by more favorable conditions in Adelaide.
Pitch Report – Adelaide Oval
What can both sides expect from the pitch at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday? (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
Historically, Adelaide Oval has proven to be far more welcoming to batsmen than Perth’s notoriously bouncy pitches. India’s last ODI defeat at this venue dates back to 2008. More recently, in their previous encounter here, a magnificent 39th century from Virat Kohli propelled India to successfully chase down 298 against Australia. The combination of shorter square boundaries and potentially moderately overcast skies could be a boon for India’s star batsmen, offering them a prime opportunity to rebound from their subdued performances in Perth. However, Australia’s bowlers will be keen to exploit any early seam movement, aiming to put pressure on India’s middle order.
Weather Forecast for the 2nd ODI in Adelaide
Will it rain at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday as India take on Australia? (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
According to AccuWeather, cricket fans can breathe a sigh of relief. The skies over Adelaide are predicted to be partly sunny throughout Thursday, with afternoon temperatures reaching a pleasant 21°C before dipping to 9°C in the evening. While India’s practice sessions earlier in the week were hampered by persistent showers, the forecast indicates a negligible chance of rainfall during the match itself. Although some overcast conditions might be present, significant interruptions are highly improbable, paving the way for a full 50-over contest—a welcome change from the series opener.
Anticipate a high-stakes encounter at a venue renowned for delivering thrilling matches. With Australia holding the early momentum, India’s ability to quickly adapt to the Adelaide conditions will be paramount in their quest to draw level in the series. For India’s captain, Shubman Gill, a lot rests on this match as he endeavors to steer his team back into contention.