IND vs AUS: Ravichandran Ashwin sends Usman Khawaja and David Warner packing to continue his domination in Nagpur

Team India veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin dismantled the Aussie top-order as Usman Khawaja and David Warner were sent packing soon after the start of the third innings of the ongoing contest. The two heavyweights have locked horns in the first of the four-match Test series at the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) Stadium in Nagpur.

After taking a terrific 223-run lead, team India looked to maintain their dominance in the second Australian innings. Ravichandran Ashwin took the onus of denting the rival batting line-up as he sent the openers Usman Khawaja and David Warner back to the dug-out in quick time.

Edged & taken! @ashwinravi99 strikes in his first over 👌 👌

Virat Kohli takes the catch 👍 👍

Australia lose Usman Khawaja.

Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/SwTGoyHfZx#TeamIndia | #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/gAUfWqe4YR

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 11, 2023

It took the spinner just five balls to dismiss Khawaja as Virat Kohli pouched the ball at slip. Similarly, a special delivery by Ashwin outfoxed Warner for an LBW on the leg-stump that further rattled the Aussies in the third innings of the contest. Khawaja and Warner were sent packing for scores of five and 10 runs respectively.

Team India continue dominance against Aussies on Day 3

After the vital scalps of the openers, Ashwin continued to dent the rival batting unit as he racked up three more wickets to complete a fifer (five-wicket haul). He has returned magnificent bowling figures of 5/34 in his 10 overs thus far after having dismissed the likes of Matt Renshaw, Peter Handscomb, and Alex Carey in addition to the openers.

Australia have lost eight wickets under 100 runs and will require their talisman Steve Smith to lead from the front. While, Rohit Sharma and Co. look strong to clinch the contest in just three days, it remains to be seen if the Aussies can get a solid partnership to revive their innings.

It is worth noting that the two sides are on the cusp of making a place in the World Test Championship final. The ongoing series proves to be a crucial point for the two cricketing powerhouses and a massive series win for either side will see them cement their place in the summit clash of the ICC event.