WATCH: Virat Kohli taunts Sydney crowd with infamous sandpaper reference after Steve Smith’s departure | AUS vs IND, Day 3
Re-commissioned as captain due to absence Jasprit BumrahVirat Kohli inspired his team to a spirited performance on the third day of the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. Known for his infectious energy and sharp tactical acumen, Kohli was responsible for organizing the Indian troops in the high-stakes clash. The legendary batsman’s leadership came to the fore as India claimed three crucial wickets, leaving the game well poised. Kohli, never shy to mingle with the crowd, also entertained with his witty ‘sandpaper’, reminding Australian fans of their infamous ball-tampering scandal in 2018.
Virat Kohli’s ‘sandpaper’ move has grabbed attention
Kohli, a master of the psychological game, made headlines with his animated gestures Steve Smithdismissal. After Prasidh Krishna removed Smith for just four runs, Kohli gestured towards the Australian crowd with a reference to “sandpaper”, alluding to the 2018 ball-tampering scandal in which Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft banned for their roles. The Cape Town incident, where sandpaper was used to alter the condition of the ball, remains a sore spot in Australian cricket history. Kohli’s cheeky celebration not only fired up his teammates but added a layer of drama to an already intense contest. The gesture highlighted Kohli’s ability to rile up the opposition and the crowd while keeping the focus on his leadership.
Here is the video:
“What is it about?”#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HwNZXhKW1S
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025
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Indian bowlers hit as Prasidh Krishna shines
Indian bowling attack, missed the services of Bumrah due to injury problemsgot off to a shaky start, allowing extras and loose deliveries in the morning session. However, Prasidh Krishna stepped in and gave an outstanding performance. The lanky pacer struck the first blow with a throwaway Konstas himselfwho tried to shoot high only to be caught in the middle Washington Sundar.
Krishna then made two key breakthroughs, removal Marnus Labuschagne for 6 and Smith for 4, leaving Australia at 58/3. His consistent line and crisp movement kept the Australian batsmen in check, providing India with a lifeline. By lunch, Australia were 71/3with Travis Head (5 is not out) i Usman Khawaja (19 not out) at the crease, still needing 91 runs to win.
India are out as Australia eye a win in Sydney
Earlier in the day, lower-order India failed to add significantly to their overnight total of 142/6 as they were bowled out for 157. Pat Cummins and Scott Boland dominated the morning session, taking two wickets each and leaving India with a modest target to defend. The tail’s lack of significant contribution highlighted India’s batting struggles in the second innings, putting the bowlers under immense pressure. Despite a low total, Kohli’s lively presence and Krishna’s sharp spell ensured India stayed in contention. With 91 more runs needed for Australia to win the Test and seal the series 3-1, the stage is set for a thrilling finish to Day 4.
READ ALSO: AUS vs IND: Suresh Raina hails Rohit Sharma for giving up Sydney Test in interest of Indian team
