The third day of the Gabba Test was marked by rain, yet Australia managed to remain in control against India. Despite only 33.1 overs being bowled due to the weather, the Australian team made the most of their chances, leaving India struggling at 51 for 4. They were answering to Australia’s first-round score of 445.
Australia’s Pace Attack: Aus vs Ind
India has a tough road ahead, especially with predictions of more rainy interruptions. Mitchell Starc stole the show with a powerful start, crippling India’s batting progression. Yashasvi Jaiswal was the first out, making no runs before hitting the ball straight to Mitchell Marsh.
Shubman Gill didn’t last much longer, his poor foot placement allowing another catch by Marsh. Next, it was Virat Kohli’s turn, but he couldn’t find his groove. His struggle with the balls outside the off-stump and short balls at his body led to his downfall. He only managed to score 3 runs before Josh Hazlewood got him out.
Rishabh Pant, another casualty to Pat Cummins, also contributed to India’s shaky performance. Yet, amidst the distress, KL Rahul held his ground. He faced the Australian onslaught bravely, despite an early hit to his wrist. His elegant cover drives and disciplined play led to an unbeaten 33 runs. However, with India still 394 runs behind, Rahul’s efforts may not be enough to turn the tide.
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah continued his track of success. He ousted Mitchell Starc, who had scored 17, with a strong throw that touched the edge. And his excellent results, ending with a 6 for 76 score, gave India a glimmer of hope.
On top of that, Bumrah joined Kapil Dev to become the second Indian fast bowler to snatch 50 Test wickets on Aussie grounds, further confirming his importance to India’s bowling team. Australia still managed to pull their total above 440, with Alex Carey chipping in a vital 70 towards the end.
Carey’s determined half-century teemed with standard sweeps against the turning balls, causing India’s bowlers to tire as they aimed to wrap things up swiftly. The final wicket to drop was Nathan Lyon, sent out by Mohammed Siraj after a determined stand with Carey.
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The match faced many stutters due to rain. The flow was broken several times. India’s batters had a hard time due to the constant interruptions. Each time they had to start from scratch on a tricky surface. Whereas, the Australian, tall bowlers had an advantage. They got extra bounce and movement.
The day ended early because of drizzle in the last session. Just a few overs were bowled as the light started to fade. Now time has become important because there’s more rain expected and only two days are left. This will have a bearing on the game’s results.
Australia could push ahead 2-1 in the series, India has a huge challenge ahead. The frequent loss of players and missing team connections have made the situation worse. Plus, harsh weather and Australia’s unyielding fast bowling team make it difficult.
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For India to keep fighting, the bottom players need to really focus, all the while Rahul holds strong at one end. Score
Score Update:
- Australia 445 (Travis Head 152, Steve Smith 101, Jasprit Bumrah 6-76)
- India 51/4 (KL Rahul 33*, Mitchell Starc 2-25)
Day four is set to be exciting, possibly even the game-changer in this Test. It’ll show if Australia can edge out a win, or if rain will offer India a break to rebuild for the last two matches. For now, though, Australia has all the momentum.
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