Chapter 68: Test : Day2 Session 2

As the players made their way back to the field after the tea break, Nitish, brimming with confidence, took his position at the crease. He had batted beautifully so far, anchoring the innings with his elegant strokeplay. The spectators eagerly anticipated his next move, hoping for another display of his extraordinary talent.

The Australian bowlers, aware of Nitish's prowess, strategized to break his concentration and dismiss him early in the session. They knew that removing Nitish from the equation would give them a significant advantage in their quest to gain control of the game.

Mitchell Johnson, the fiery fast bowler, took the ball and charged towards the crease with a steely determination. His intent was clear - to rattle Nitish with a searing yorker. Nitish, aware of the challenge ahead, prepared himself for the battle.

As the ball was released from Johnson's hand, it swung viciously inwards, angling towards the stumps. Nitish, who had anticipated a shorter delivery, found himself in an awkward position. In an attempt to drive the ball, he misjudged the line and length, and the ball crashed into his pads.

The sound of impact echoed across the stadium as the umpire's finger was raised, signaling Nitish's departure. A hush fell over the crowd, disappointment etched on their faces. Nitish, crestfallen, made his way back to the pavilion, analyzing his shot and vowing to rectify his mistake in the next innings.

With Nitish's departure, it was now Australia's turn to take charge. Warner and Rogers, the opening pair, stepped onto the field with confidence radiating from their every move. They had observed Nitish's innings closely and were eager to emulate his strokeplay while adding their own flair to the game.

The Australian duo unleashed a flurry of attacking shots, taking advantage of any loose delivery offered by the Indian bowlers. They effortlessly dispatched bouncers, inswingers, yorkers, and fuller deliveries to the boundary ropes. Their footwork was impeccable, allowing them to play with precision and power.

Warner, known for his aggressive style, unleashed a series of powerful cuts, drives, and pulls, sending the ball racing to the boundary with astonishing speed. Rogers, on the other hand, relied on his solid technique and elegant strokeplay, gracefully guiding the ball through the gaps.

The Indian bowlers tried valiantly to break the partnership, but Warner and Rogers seemed impervious to their efforts. Each time a bouncer was directed towards them, they responded with a well-timed hook shot or a stunning uppercut. The inswingers and yorkers were met with a swift movement of the feet, as they expertly flicked the ball away or drove it through the covers.

As the overs ticked by, Warner and Rogers steadily accumulated runs, bringing up their respective half-centuries. The crowd, now witnessing the brilliance of the Australian batsmen, erupted in applause and admiration for their skillful display.

The day ended with Australia in a commanding position at 109/0, their openers still at the crease, and Nitish contemplating his dismissal. The momentum had shifted, and the challenge for the Indian team grew even more daunting.