AUS vs WI: The opening encounter of the test series between Australia and West Indies is currently occurring at the Optus Stadium of Perth. The hosts Australia have dominated a major part of the contest following an action-packed play of two days. Batting first, Australia posted a mammoth total of 598 for the loss of 4 wickets (declare), and visitors West Indies are currently 74 for none in return.
“The new ball, we got it nice and full, they batted well. We will have to come out fresh again tomorrow. It was just another day at the office for Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne. It was pretty much the perfect innings for everyone involved until that happened (Head getting out on 99), you can’t have everything.” said Josh Hazlewood after the conclusion of day 2
Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith remained as the pick of the batters for Australia. Both the renowned middle-order batters contributed with remarkable double centuries, going on to score the majority of the team’s runs. Labuschagne was ultimately dismissed on the score of 204 by Kraig Brathwaite, while Smith remained unbeaten on the score of 200.
"I've changed a couple of things. My grip's a bit more open, I'm staying a bit more side on…"
An extended chat with Steve Smith after his 200* on Day 2 in Perth #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/eeVDtIl4zT
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 1, 2022
Travis Head loses his wicket on the score of 99!
Meanwhile, Travis Head’s dismissal towards the latter half of the second day remained one of the most talked about points. The middle-order batter lost his wicket on the score of 99, missing out on a well-deserved century by just one run. He chopped the ball on the stumps during an attempt to play a late against a part-time bowler, namely, Kraig Brathwaite.
Australian skipper Pat Cummins immediately signaled the declaration after Head lost his wicket and he was visibly frustrated while having a long way back. The right-hander’s quickfire innings can turn out to be decisive for Australia on what seems to be a batting-friednly pitch. He took just 95 balls to reach the score of 99, having managed to smash a whopping 11 boundaries.
Here’s the video of Travis Head’s dismissal:
Getting a reprisal on 99 isn't for everyone 😉
Travis Head chopped on when on the verge 🙃#AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/EsxqkNp78p
— Cricket on TNT Sports (@cricketontnt) December 1, 2022