Brisbane, December 12 – Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar believes that after their commanding 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, Australia will head into the third Test against India at the Gabba on Saturday with momentum firmly on their side.
Following a crushing 295-run loss in the series opener in Perth, Australia leveled the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy at 1-1 with their dominant performance in Adelaide.
Speaking to Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "The rhythm India gained in Perth has been lost during the 10-day break. Now, the momentum is with Australia because they won the Test match."
He added, "Playing at the Gabba just days after their victory in Adelaide means that Australia will carry that rhythm into the next match."
Harbhajan Singh Emphasizes Gabba as Crucial for India's Campaign
Former spinner Harbhajan Singh echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that India should aim to play their best cricket at the Gabba before heading to more favorable venues like Sydney and Melbourne.
“I think India’s best chances will be in Sydney and Melbourne,” Harbhajan said. “But if they manage to bring their A-game to the Gabba and secure a win, they could definitely win one of the matches in Melbourne or Sydney.”
Despite India’s heavy defeat in Adelaide, Harbhajan remains optimistic about the team’s ability to bounce back.
"The fact that the series is level after two matches shows that both teams have the ability to turn things around," he said. "Australia has fought back, and now it’s perhaps India’s turn to shift the momentum."
Loss of Momentum Between Tests
Harbhajan, who has 711 international wickets to his name, agreed with Gavaskar that the extended break between the first two Tests may have disrupted India's rhythm. He emphasized the need for India to regain their focus and intensity to challenge Australia on their home turf.
The third Test at the Gabba is poised to be a pivotal clash as both teams vie for supremacy in the closely contested Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
