Australia’s decision to replace an out-of-form Mitchell Marsh with Webster looks an impressive one after the 31-year-old Tasmanian played a key role on his second day of Test cricket.
After putting Australia in trouble at 39-4 when Mohammad Siraj dismissed Sam Konstas and Travis Head in the same over, Webster struck with a determined innings that included six fours.
He then took his first Test wicket when Shubman Gill was swiped by Kerry, and Jadeja should have had his second – but Smith managed a one-handed effort to Usman Khawaja at first slip. Couldn’t keep up.
Bowling honors for Australia fell to Boland, who was an immediate threat after Starc proved costly.
The delivery that went off the seam to clip Jaiswal’s off-stump was a highlight for the popular 35-year-old Victorian.
If Boland and the rest of the attack finish India early on the third morning, Australia will have a good chance of winning the match and securing the series victory.
That said, it’s foolish to make dramatic predictions on the second day, and Bumrah’s availability will certainly prove crucial.