IND vs AUS 1st Test Day 3: Pitch Report Raises Concerns Over Bounce and Batting Conditions

Mumbai, India - As the third day of the first Test between India and Australia got underway at the Wankhede Stadium, the pitch report paint a worrying picture. With the mercury expected to soar today, experts are predicting that the already fragile pitch will get even more decrepit, posing significant challenges for both batsmen and bowlers.

Visible layers of grass have given way to rough patches, which may seem encouraging at first glance. However, cricket analysts believe that these rough spots belie a deeper concern - the expanding cracks on the pitch. As temperatures rise, these cracks are likely to widen, making it even more difficult for batsmen to navigate this tricky wicket.

As Mike Selvey, former international cricketer and commentator, observed, "The heat will surely make things tough. And although there's still some grass visible, the cracks would be a concern." While the grass offers some respite from the heat, it cannot completely offset the impact of the worsening cracks, which could become more pronounced as the day wears on.

In a surprise reveal, veteran bowler Michael Holding praised the current pitch, saying, "There's still some grass out there... although it looks like brown carpet. When I look at that ball tracking, I feel more optimistic about getting wickets tonight."

Today's test will be crucial as all-rounder Hardik Pandya and his teammates attempt to overcome the early challenges posed by a patchy pitch.