But the tourists capitulated during their run chase after starting briskly to leave the series perfectly poised heading in to the third Test, of the four-match series, in Ranchi from March 16.
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About the exchange between Smith and the Indian team, he said: “I think there was something at the other end, and I didn’t really hear too much”. India wrested back the momentum and set Australia a target of 188 thanks largely to a 118-run fifth-wicket stand between Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane – the only century partnership in the entire match.
“Because we observed that and we told the match referee as well, and we told the umpires they had been doing that for the last three days and that had to stop”.
Of course, that’s actually against the rules, as players who are reviewing must make the decision without assistance.
“I think when we came out and bowled we were probably rushing a little bit, nearly expecting things to happen instead of getting to the basics and executing our skills”, Smith said. I don’t know what the exact words were, but I think it was still in the spirit of the game. “I would never do something like that on the field”.
Smith scored arguably the best century of his Test career in Pune then declared India were “under a bit of pressure” following Australia’s shock 333-run first Test win. “The Indians were just trying to get our captain out”.
There could be repercussions for both sides.
Both umpires then took Kohli aside after the incident, giving him yet another talking to during what has been an incredibly spiteful Test.
Even as Smith said that it was the only such instance, Kohli would have none of the explanation. “May be I should have just put my hands up and done it (reviewed)”, said Smith.
There was more to come, says ABC.
Four of O’Keefe’s six wickets in the second innings were leg before dismissals while he also got the prized scalp of Kohli, who completed a forgettable display when he shouldered arms to a straight delivery and saw his off-stump uprooted for 13.
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The second Test between India and Australia in Bengaluru had it all – quality bowling and batting, along with all the twists and turns, making it one of the best Test matches in cricket history.
