Brisbane [Australia], December 17 : The fate of the third Test at Gabba remains uncertain as Ravindra Jadeja continued to lead India’s resistance against Australia on Day 4, with India’s score at 201/7, trailing by 244 runs at Tea. Jadeja was unbeaten on 65* (109), alongside Mohammed Siraj, who was on 1* (7).
The majority of the second session was interrupted by heavy rain, which first made its appearance at the end of the morning session. Despite the disruptions, Jadeja and Nitish Kumar kept Australia at bay, with both players showing resilience against the Aussie attack.
Nitish, known for his aggressive batting, adopted a more defensive approach in the face of Australia’s bowlers. He stayed composed, protecting his wicket, but was eventually dismissed for 16, chopping the ball onto his stumps. Jadeja, in contrast, celebrated his well-fought half-century with a sword gesture, showing his determination to see India through.
Pat Cummins, searching for a breakthrough, introduced himself into the attack but failed to unsettle the Indian batsmen. The session was ultimately cut short due to rain, with Mitchell Starc visibly frustrated as the umpires called for the players to leave the field.
Earlier in the day, India’s KL Rahul survived a close call when he edged the first ball of the day, only for Steven Smith to drop a simple chance at second slip. Rahul made the most of his fortune, playing some elegant cover drives, while Rohit Sharma took a more cautious approach. However, Rohit was dismissed cheaply for 10 (27), caught behind by Alex Carey.
Rahul continued to build his innings and reached 84 before he fell to Nathan Lyon, caught stunningly by Smith at first slip. With India losing their top-order, Jadeja and Nitish mounted a strong counterattack, with Jadeja playing his trademark strokes, keeping India’s hopes alive as they looked to avoid the follow-on.
Australia’s day took a blow when Josh Hazlewood was forced off the field due to a suspected calf injury, allowing Rahul and Jadeja to capitalize on the opportunity. India, despite losing key wickets, managed to keep the scoreboard ticking, with the duo unbeaten at the end of the session.
Brief Score:
Australia 445 (Travis Head 152, Steven Smith 151; Jasprit Bumrah 6-76) vs India 201/7 (KL Rahul 84, Ravindra Jadeja 65*; Pat Cummins 3-49).