Despite an impressive first innings total of 408, the Indian team failed to keep up their momentum against Australia as they lost the second Test by four wickets at the Brisbane Cricket Ground.
Australia currently lead the four-match series 2-0 having won the first Test by 48 runs.
The Australian pace attack headed by spearhead Mitchell Johnson let loose all hell on the Indian squad in the second innings, wrapping the tourists up for just 224 runs.
Australia had gained a 97-run lead in the first innings, thanks to a brilliant knock of 133 runs by stand-in captain Steven Smith and Johnson’s staggering 88. India’s 224 in the second innings helped the tourists take a meagre 127-run lead.
Only Shikhar Dhawan provided some stability to the rapidly falling Indian wickets with his splendid knock of 81 runs off 145 deliveries.
The rest of the Indian squad struggled with Rohit Sharma and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni going for a duck. Virat Kohli managed to score just one run before he fell prey to Johnson’s express delivery.
Johnson claimed four wickets in the second innings removing Cheteshwar Pujara (43), Kohli (1), Ajinkya Rahane (10) and Rohit Sharma (0) with his express deliveries.
Australia, meanwhile, chased down the 127-run lead with ease, although the hosts did lose some quick wickets with Shaun Marsh going after scoring 17 runs and wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin going for just one.
Shane Watson failed to add a single run to the Australian scoreline as he went for a duck off Indian pace express Ishant Sharma’s delivery.
Chris Rodgers’ 55 helped Australia seal the win with four wickets left to spare as well as a complete day.
Australian skipper Smith won the man-of-the-match award for his first innings knock of 133 runs.
The third match between India and Australia would be held at Melbourne, starting from December 26. India can now just look forward to leveling the series as another loss would result in a series loss.
—ANI