One of the most unforgettable moments in Indian cricket history: India bowled out for just 36 runs at the Adelaide Oval in 2020. That crushing defeat left the team broken, and the echoes of that day still linger. But what followed was a stunning turnaround, as India defied all odds to recover and win the series. Now, four years later, India returns to the Adelaide Oval for another Day/Night Test. Can they silence the ghosts of 2020 and claim victory this time?

The 2020 Adelaide debacle was tough, but what followed was nothing short of extraordinary. After the crushing defeat, India made a remarkable comeback. A thrilling win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was followed by a fighting draw at the Sydney Cricket Ground. But it was the Gabba victory that became the stuff of legends. Shubman Gill’s sparkling 91 and Rishabh Pant’s match-winning 89 helped India secure an iconic win, breaking Australia’s long-standing unbeaten streak at the Gabba. That series victory remains one of India’s greatest achievements, proving that even after the lowest of lows, there is always a chance for glory.

In 2024, India arrive at the Adelaide Oval in a much stronger position, fresh off a historic 295-run win over Australia in Perth. It was the first time an Asian team had defeated Australia at Optus Stadium. The victory was even more remarkable as India had been bowled out for just 150 in the first innings. Despite the odds, Jasprit Bumrah, leading in Rohit Sharma’s absence, delivered a brilliant 5-wicket haul. Debutant Harshit Rana and Mohammed Siraj also played key roles as Australia were bowled out for just 104, giving India a 46-run lead.

India’s second innings was a masterclass in batting. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal shared a stunning 201-run stand, with Jaiswal scoring 161 and Rahul making 77. Virat Kohli, with a quickfire century, made a strong comeback, supported by Nitish Reddy. The bowlers then sealed the win, dismantling Australia’s batting lineup in the second innings.

Between the two Tests, India played a tour match against the Prime Minister’s XI, marking the return of both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Gill, who missed the first Test due to injury, showed no signs of rust, scoring a brilliant fifty with some beautiful shots. Rohit, batting in the middle order for the first time in a while, looked solid and provided valuable support. Washington Sundar also impressed with an unbeaten 42, helping India to victory. The return of these players boosts India’s confidence as they prepare to field their strongest XI for the upcoming Test.

India are expected to make two changes for the second Test, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma returning to the side. Their inclusion strengthens the batting order, with Rohit’s experience and Gill’s flair adding crucial balance. Australia, meanwhile, have been dominant in Day/Night Tests, winning 11 of 12 matches, with their only defeat coming earlier this year against the West Indies. India have played four Day/Night Tests, winning three and losing one, which came during their last tour of Australia.

India and Australia have faced each other 13 times at the Adelaide Oval, with India winning only two matches and one match ending in a draw. While the record at this venue isn’t favorable for India, their current form offers hope that they can finally overcome the ghosts of the 2020 Adelaide debacle and take a 2-0 series lead. The stage is set, the players are ready, and we’re all set for the thrilling action to unfold.