Adelaide Test Memories Haunt as Australia Prepares for a Fresh Battle.
The fateful Adelaide Test of 2020 remains etched in cricketing memory—a day when India crumbled to their lowest-ever Test score of 36.
The Test began with a balanced contest. India, after scoring 244 in the first innings, bowled out Australia for 191 and ended the day at 9/1. But on Day 3, the script changed dramatically. By the time the drinks break arrived, India was reeling at 26/6, and soon, the innings folded at 36. Not a single batter reached double figures, creating an unprecedented low in Test history.
Fast forward to 2024, the narrative shifts as cricket returns to the same venue. For Australians, memories of that match might serve as a psychological boost, but this team seems focused on the present rather than revisiting past glories.
Among the stars of that unforgettable day was Josh Hazlewood, who dismantled India’s batting lineup with figures of 5/8.
Reflecting on the day, Hazlewood recalled, “It’s always tough to bowl in the second innings when the opposition has a lead. That day, things just fell into place. The pink ball was doing its bit, and sticking to line and length worked.”
Despite such a historic performance, Australia has been measured in its approach ahead of the current series. Players like Travis Head and Alex Carey have chosen not to dwell on the past.
Head remarked, “It was nice, but I haven’t revisited it. It’s not something we expect to happen again this week.” Carey echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing preparation and process over nostalgia.
In a departure from Australia’s traditionally combative style, this team has refrained from leveraging mental games. A far cry from the era of Steve Waugh’s “mental disintegration,” the focus now seems to be on introspection and maintaining team camaraderie.
Observers point to the IPL’s influence, suggesting that players are more cautious about their comments, given the bonds forged with Indian teammates in franchise cricket.
Meanwhile, India, well aware of the history associated with Adelaide, will be looking to bury the ghosts of 2020. The reminder, as Virat Kohli said during his interaction with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is to always “add some spice.”
Both teams, despite the weight of history, appear poised for a fresh contest as Adelaide sets the stage for another chapter in this storied rivalry.
