- Australia crashed out on day three of first Test in Perth as India dominated
- Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal dazzled to help build a 522-run lead.
- Australia would return to bat for 30 minutes but lose three wickets
Cricket fans criticized Australia after their dismal performance against India on Sunday in Perth.
Pat Cummins’ team was put to the sword by India, with the visitors setting the Baggy Greens a huge target of 534.
It came after Virat Kohli ended his Test century drought, earning his first ton in 16 innings. It came after Yashasvi Jaiswal dazzled by scoring 161 runs off 297.
Meanwhile, Australia’s bowlers were unable to take advantage of the conditions, with India declaring 487-6.
Australia would return to the fold, but things went from bad to worse.
Test debutant Nathan McSweeney, night watchman Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne would be sent walking by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, compounding the nightmare day.
Online fans have lashed out at Australia, which now requires 522 runs with seven wickets left to win.
“Australians seem so washed up right now,” one wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Labuschagne would be sacked on the last dance of the day and left some scratching their heads after reviewing a conclusive lbw decision.
“It’s been a disgraceful performance on their part (Labuschange) since last summer, you have to think where you are,” one wrote.
“Marnus is a real joke right now,” said another.
Another added: “The whole team is finished.”
‘It is time to let Marnus Labuschagne return to domestic cricket as he has been very unwell for a few years.
“Smith isn’t much better, but I think we need to do another test and get someone else in. Anyone,” added another.
Some fans lashed out at Australia for their poor performance, while others praised Cummins for stepping in as night watchman.
Labuschagne has struggled to maintain his form this year, having scored just a 100 since January.
James Brayshaw delivered his verdict on Labuschagne’s review, telling Channel Seven: “Labuschange has got it terribly wrong.”
“That’s a failure, and the ending to this day couldn’t have been worse for the Australian cricket team,” he added.
Wow, what a dramatic turn of events! Australia losing three wickets in just 4.2 overs before stumps is quite shocking!
Did Marnus Labuschagne leave LBW without offering a chance? That’s a hard blow!’ Another fan wrote in X.
Despite Australia’s problems, some praised Cummins for acting as Australia’s night watchman, despite being dismissed after facing eight balls.
‘I have to hand it to Pat Cummins after watching him come out to bat and be the night watchman for his team after bowling all day.
‘This is what earns you the respect of your peers. This is what a leader looks like!’
Aaron Finch on Channel Seven commentary also praised the Australian captain, saying: “Usually it’s Nathan Lyon who gets sent off…
‘Pat Cummins raises his hand and that shows leadership.
“He says, ‘You know what? “As bowlers we have contributed to the situation we are in, so I will put my hand up and do it myself.”
‘He shows a genuine interest in the team. Show someone who respects the role. Understand how difficult this must be.
More to follow…