India vs Australia, 3rd Test Day 2: Rohit Sharma drops Travis Head as Australia takes control

A critical moment slipped through India’s grasp during Day 2 of the ongoing IND vs AUS third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane. India captain Rohit Sharma missed a diving catch opportunity to dismiss Travis Head, allowing the Australian batter to continue his onslaught and frustrate the visitors further.

Australia entered the final session on a strong note, reaching 234/3 at Tea. Travis Head smashed his second consecutive century against India in the series, anchoring Australia’s innings. Head received excellent support from Steve Smith, who notched up a resilient half-century, further strengthening Australia’s grip on the match.

The turning point occurred when Nitish Kumar Reddy bowled a delivery angling into the pads of Head. Attempting a flick, Head managed a leading edge. Rohit Sharma, positioned at wide slip, saw the ball late and threw himself to his left, getting both hands to it. However, the Indian skipper couldn’t hold on to the catch.

“Nitish Reddy to Head, 2 runs, was it a chance? Rohit did get both hands and can’t hold on. India can’t afford to miss chances!”

This drop proved costly, as Head continued to punish the Indian bowlers on an improving surface, capitalizing on India’s dwindling momentum.

Earlier in the day, India had managed to regain some control in the first session, with Jasprit Bumrah striking twice to dismiss the Australian openers. Bumrah also removed Marnus Labuschagne, who struggled against India’s relentless pace. However, the hosts turned the tide in the second session as batting conditions eased.

At Tea on Day 2, Australia sits comfortably at 234/3, with Travis Head batting on a well-made century and Steve Smith solid at the crease. India’s inability to capitalize on chances has left them desperate for breakthroughs as they look to claw back into the match.