Virat Kohli was full of life and energy on Day 2 of the third Test between India and Australia, displaying his usual dynamic presence as he took some fine catches in the slips. Jasprit Bumrah set the tone early by dismissing Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney in the first session, while Nitish Reddy claimed Marnus Labuschagne’s wicket. Labuschagne, attempting to drive a delivery on the eighth stump, handed the ball straight to Kohli in the slips. Kohli’s response was a silent yet powerful ‘finger-on-lips’ gesture, a subtle yet strong message to the crowd, which had been vocal in targeting Indian players.

The spectators at the Gabba were loud and relentless, directing their attention towards various Indian players, including Mohammed Siraj, who faced boos as he walked onto the field. Kohli, sensing the intensity of the crowd, decided to strike back with his silent gesture after claiming the catch.

The day began with Australia at 28 for no loss, but Bumrah quickly shifted the momentum, dismissing Khawaja (21 off 54) in the fourth over with a ball that straightened to take an outside edge. This marked the third time in the series that Bumrah had gotten rid of the left-handed opener. In the next over, Bumrah sent Nathan McSweeney (9 off 49) back to the pavilion, drawing a thick edge that flew to Kohli at second slip.

India maintained the pressure with Steve Smith (25 off 68) and Labuschagne (12 off 55) trying to consolidate. Smith, testing the Indian pacers with his new stance, faced continued challenges, particularly from Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj, though neither could break through.

Reddy, swinging the ball effectively, dismissed Labuschagne in the 34th over. The Australian batter, attempting to drive a full delivery, edged it straight to Kohli, leaving Australia at 75 for 3.

Just after the breakthrough, India experienced a scare when Siraj walked off the field, holding his left knee. Fortunately, he returned shortly after, much to the relief of the Indian camp. During this time, Siraj and Labuschagne shared a light-hearted moment as they jokingly swapped the bails, adding some levity to the tense atmosphere.

As Travis Head (20 off 35) joined Smith at the crease, runs began to flow, with Head’s elegant cover drive off Bumrah being the highlight of the morning session.