The fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney has captured attention for its dramatic nature. Day 2 of the match saw 15 wickets tumble, setting the stage for a thrilling finish, with the possibility of the game concluding on the third day itself. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar seized the moment to deliver a sharp retort to Australian and English cricketers often critical of Indian pitches.
Gavaskar Calls Out Hypocrisy Over Pitch Criticism
Speaking on ABC Sport, Gavaskar highlighted the stark double standards, saying, “If 15 wickets fell in a single day on an Indian pitch, there would be endless criticism and chaos.” He added that while foreign players frequently complain about Indian tracks, Indian cricketers maintain their composure regardless of the conditions. “We are not moaners or whingers. When we step onto the field, we take the challenges head-on. If we lose, we accept it and move on,” he asserted.
Sydney Pitch Raises Eyebrows
The match saw Australia’s first innings end at 181, with Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Nitish Kumar Reddy making the most of the favorable conditions. India managed to secure a slender four-run lead, but their second innings also saw regular setbacks despite Rishabh Pant’s brisk half-century. By stumps on Day 2, India was 141/6 with a lead of 145.
Gavaskar referenced former Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, who remarked he had never seen so much grass on a Sydney pitch. The former Indian opener took a dig, saying, “Did you hear any Indian cricketer complain about the pitch? When we play abroad, we adapt and tough it out. Beating home teams on their turf is always a challenge.”
A Questionable Test Track
Gavaskar expressed disappointment in the Sydney pitch, suggesting it wasn’t conducive to the ideal Test match experience. “The surface had so much grass on it that cows could have grazed there,” he quipped. “Test matches should ideally last into the fourth and fifth days. Unless rain intervenes, this game isn’t making it past Day 3,” he added.
A Fitting Conclusion Awaits
With both teams battling fiercely, the Sydney Test remains on a knife’s edge, promising an exciting conclusion to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Gavaskar’s comments serve as a reminder of the need for fairness and consistency when discussing pitch conditions, regardless of where the game is played.
