High Drama as India and Australia Clash at Sydney Cricket Ground

India, without captain Jasprit Bumrah, dismissed Australia for 181 and took a slender lead on the second day of the fifth test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Despite a gutsy debut by Australia's Beau Webster and formidable bowling, India's bowlers and Rishabh Pant's striking performance shone through.

The absence of captain Jasprit Bumrah did little to hinder India's momentum, as they dismissed Australia for 181 and took the lead by the close of an exhilarating second day at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Nitish Kumar Reddy stepped up, filling the void left by Bumrah to put India ahead. Rishabh Pant showcased a striking performance with a rapid half-century, though Australia fought back fiercely with Scott Boland taking pivotal wickets.

The debutant, Beau Webster, gained admiration from the crowd, while Virat Kohli took charge as captain. India's chances remain finely balanced as they strive to square up the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

(With inputs from agencies.)