People are being too tough on the bowling attack. The pitch gave them nothing and the second half of the day, India stopped scoring runs. Paine's captaincy left a bit to be desired as it wasn't attacking enough. Green and Marnus should've been utilised more.
In the same breath, India has played out of its skin. Ishant Sharma out of the series, Shami only played one game, Yadav gone in the middle of the innings, Kohli played 1 game, Vihari pulled hammie, Ashwin back pain and hit in the ribs, Jadeja broken thumb. Great resilience.
Yes, a lot of credit has to be given to India. Even if Australia win this series, it'll be always under question whether if would have been as achievable with Shami, Yadav, Kohli & now Jadeja and Vihari not seeing out the series.
India hold the Border Gavaskar Trophy and they won it playing against Australia without Smith & Warner. Should they give it back? This is sport, you play the best they can throw in front of you. I'd note that all of those out with the exception of Kohli have been injured during games and all but Jadeja, injured being unable to play our fast bowlers short deliveries and therefore its match related.
I put that series under question for that reason too. Agree you can only play who is in front of you but you can't tell me Australia or India aren't disadvantaged without their best there.
I reckon ( and I know people will disagree ) Shami is the best quickie in the world at the moment ...just pips Patty
He's up there. I like Shami, at least as a cricketer. He's a wife beating germ away from it.
Pat is still my first pick.
