NEW DELHI: On the second day of the third Test against India at The Gabba, Australian batters Steve Smith and Travis Head forged a significant 241-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Head, contributing a dynamic 152 from 160 deliveries, was the primary aggressor, marking his ninth Test century and his second in a row against India in this series, following a 140 in the Adelaide Test’s first innings.
Meanwhile, Smith, who had been experiencing a lean patch, broke an 18-month century drought, scoring his 33rd Test century and moving past Australian cricket legend Steve Waugh in the process.
Smith lauded Head’s performance, highlighting the ease with which his partner scored and facilitated the rapid accumulation of runs.
“It was nice. The top three did a pretty good job. They played 50 balls each. The new ball was doing a fair bit. It was nice to get in, get some luck early and get that partnership with Heady. He makes things look easy. The scoreboard is moving so quickly. I was toe-to-toe with him after the break but it was wonderful to watch him go. I had the best seat in the house,” he told Australian broadcasters.
Smith also expressed satisfaction with his return to form and the importance of their partnership in shifting the match’s momentum in Australia’s favour.
“We have had few partnerships before and hopefully, more to go. I felt good. Missed out for a little while now. Nice to get to triple figures. I said to a few guys. Batting has been difficult, especially against the new ball. A lot of credit must go to them as well,” Smith added.
Australia concluded the day at 405/7, with Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc not out. India’s Jasprit Bumrah was the standout bowler, securing 5-72, while Mohammed Siraj and Nitish Kumar Reddy each took a wicket.
The early dismissals of Australian openers by Bumrah had initially given India an advantageous start, but the substantial partnership between Smith and Head significantly bolstered Australia’s position in the match.
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