Momentum is with us: Smith

The final Test, set to decide the series which now rests delicately at one win each, begins in Dharamsala on Saturday. As with most philosophical arguments founded on theories that are impossible to disprove or discount, the logic that the Australia skipper applies after his batters survived more than 90 overs today for the loss of just four wickets is sound. 

“If there’s anything called momentum in cricket it’s probably with us at the moment,” Smith said shortly after India abandoned their hopes, so high at day’s start, of dismissing the Australians who had eked out a lead of 50. 

“India, coming here today, would have expected to bowl us out. So I’m sure they’re hurting a little bit. It (momentum) is probably on our side at the minute, but having said that it’s one-all and we’re playing a decider in Dharamsala.” 

Smith said he is proud of the team. “They had magnificient plans. They backed their defense for long periods of time to see the game out for as long as they did was an outstanding performance. I’m really proud of the way they did that. That’s one of the things we’ve been talking about - being resilient and sticking out the tough times. The way Petey [Peter Handscomb] and Shun [Shaun Marsh] did that was magnificent.”