Andrew McDonald Talks About Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli's Struggles

Australia’s head coach, Andrew McDonald, spoke about the performances of Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli on Day 2 of the Sydney Test. McDonald praised Pant for his aggressive approach in the second innings but was surprised by his slow and defensive batting in the first innings.

Rishabh Pant’s Surprising First Innings Approach

Pant, who is known for his attacking style, surprised everyone with his cautious approach in the first innings. He scored just 40 runs off 98 balls, enduring several body blows during his 149-minute stay at the crease. Pant later mentioned that he wasn’t in the right mindset to attack at that time.

Pant’s Dominant Second Innings

However, Pant turned things around in the second innings, playing aggressively and hitting two huge sixes off Mitchell Starc. He also lofted Scott Boland and Beau Webster for sixes. McDonald acknowledged Pant’s ability to put pressure on bowlers, even though Australia had plans to counter him. He praised the wicketkeeper-batter for his match-winning potential in recent Test matches.

Pat Cummins Dismisses Pant

Despite Pant’s attacking play, Australia managed to dismiss him when he looked like taking control. McDonald stated that Australia’s bowlers had been working on strategies to handle Pant, including bouncing him in and out. They were ready for his big shots, and ultimately, Cummins got him out just when it seemed Pant was becoming dangerous. McDonald also highlighted that the bowlers remained patient and executed their plans well, ensuring Pant didn’t get away with his aggressive style of batting.

Virat Kohli’s Struggles Against Scott Boland

McDonald also praised Australia’s bowlers, especially Scott Boland, for their success against Virat Kohli. Kohli has been dismissed eight times in his last nine innings while fishing at deliveries outside the off-stump. McDonald acknowledged the challenges Kohli faces and commended the bowlers for their precise execution of plans, particularly Boland, who has dismissed Kohli four times in five Tests. McDonald emphasized that despite Kohli’s struggles, he is never an easy wicket and that Australia’s bowlers would continue to apply pressure on him in the future.