Virat Kohli assumes captaincy from Rohit Sharma, his exemplary leadership style captures the internet's attention

New Delhi: Virat Kohli displayed his trademark intensity and passion as he led from the front during the second test at Adelaide Oval. In a crucial moment during the match, Kohli took charge and guided ODI and test captain Rohit Sharma and bowler Siraj in setting the field to disrupt Australia's partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan McSweeney. This decisive move occurred in the 17th over of Australia's innings, with Kohli seen strategizing with Rohit before directing Siraj to make a field change. Both Rohit and Siraj promptly implemented Kohli's instructions, showcasing the captain's decisive leadership on the field.

McSweeney and Labuschagne had already put on 62 runs for the first wicket and were looking increasingly dangerous after India was dismissed for 180 in their first innings. They remained unbeaten at the close of play on Day 1, with Australia in control at 86/1.

Opting to bat first, India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal on the first ball of the Test match. However, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul weathered the early storm and guided India to 69 without further damage. But Mitchell Starc had other plans, breaking the partnership. From there, India continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Nitish Kumar Reddy played a lone hand, scoring 42 off 54, which helped India reach a somewhat respectable total in the first innings.

Starc was the standout bowler for Australia, finishing with impressive figures of 6 for 48, while Scott Boland and Pat Cummins claimed two wickets each. For India, Jasprit Bumrah made an early breakthrough by dismissing Usman Khawaja for 13. However, McSweeney and Labuschagne steadied the ship for Australia, ensuring they were in a strong position at stumps.

Kohli (7) and Rohit (3) couldn’t make an impact with the bat as Starc and Boland dismissed both cheaply. With Australia trailing by 94 runs, India will look to Bumrah for a vital breakthrough to help them regain control on Day 2.

India lead the five-match Test series 1-0 after their dominant 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth of Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.