India v Australia, 1st Test - India Player Ratings

Ishant Sharma – 3/10

Ishant was lively in the game against Bangladesh and looked like a threat throughout. However, against a better opposition, he didn’t look so effective and was not expected to do much with the new-ball. However, his inability to build pressure and pick wickets in crucial moments, particularly with reverse swing on offer, should worry the team management.

The Indians had a forgettable match and they would want to forget everything soon about this match, barring Umesh. They have got an extra two days for the same and Anil Kumble would have a lot of thinking to do and tactics to be used in the coming games. It’s ok to lose games, but the poor temperament shown by the players needs addressing.

Catching in close-cordon has been a worry ever since the legendary Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman left the arena. India dropped three catches of Steven Smith, two of those put down by an unlucky Abhinav Mukund, which will have to be addressed immediately.