BRISBANE: India managed to avoid the follow-on, reaching 252 for nine at stumps on day four of the third Test against Australia, with bad light forcing an early close of play on Tuesday.
Resilient knocks from Ravindra Jadeja (77) and KL Rahul (84) kept India’s hopes alive as they trailed the hosts by 193 runs. The lower-order duo of Jasprit Bumrah (10) and Akash Deep (27) added crucial runs with a spirited last-wicket stand of 39 off 54 balls, ensuring India stayed in contention.
Australian Bowlers Dominate
Australia’s captain Pat Cummins led the bowling attack, finishing with impressive figures of 4 for 80. Mitchell Starc supported him well with 3 for 83, while Nathan Lyon claimed one wicket for 54 runs. The Australian bowlers were relentless, despite Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the match due to injury.
Key Partnerships Revive India
KL Rahul was instrumental in India’s recovery after resuming the day at 51 for 4. Despite the early dismissal of captain Rohit Sharma (10), Rahul displayed patience and class, scoring a solid 84 off 133 balls, including 12 boundaries. He shared a crucial 67-run partnership with Jadeja to stabilize the innings.
Jadeja continued the fightback after Rahul’s dismissal, forging a 53-run stand with Nitish Kumar Reddy (16) before Reddy fell to Cummins. Jadeja’s gritty 77 off 110 deliveries, featuring 11 fours, was the highlight of India’s innings until his dismissal left the lower order exposed.
Rain and Bad Light Interrupt Play
The post-lunch session saw a rain interruption of over an hour, further slowing down India’s progress. Towards the end of the day, bad light brought an early halt to proceedings with Bumrah and Akash Deep frustrating the Australian bowlers.
Series Update
With the five-match series tied at 1-1, the final day of the Test promises an exciting finish as India aims to narrow the deficit and push for a draw.
Brief Scores:
Australia 1st Innings: 445
India 1st Innings: 252 for 9 in 74.5 overs (KL Rahul 84, Ravindra Jadeja 77; Pat Cummins 4/80, Mitchell Starc 3/83).
