India’s fightback in the third Test against Australia in Brisbane saw a mix of resilience, rain interruptions, and spirited performances on Day 4. The Indian lower order, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, showcased grit to avoid the follow-on amid another rain-hit day.
Day 4 Summary
The final hour belonged to India as Bumrah and Akash Deep stitched an unbeaten 39-run partnership, helping India cross the follow-on mark. Despite losing Mohammed Siraj early after Tea and Ravindra Jadeja in the final hour, the tailenders stood firm, frustrating the Australian bowlers.
Akash Deep’s emphatic boundary off Pat Cummins in the final overs lifted the Indian dressing room’s spirits. Bad light forced an early end to the day’s play, with India still trailing significantly but holding onto their chances of avoiding an innings defeat.
Rain Interruptions and Key Moments
The day began under overcast skies, with rain looming large. India started the day at 51/4, still 394 runs behind Australia’s first-innings total of 445. KL Rahul was the sole batter holding fort with 33 runs, while Rohit Sharma was yet to open his account.
- Morning Session: India lost two wickets in quick succession, with Pat Cummins trapping Rohit Sharma for a timid 10 and Nathan Lyon dismissing KL Rahul, who had fought valiantly for his 84 off 139 balls. Rahul’s dismissal, courtesy of a brilliant catch by Steve Smith, left India reeling at 105/5.
- Jadeja and Reddy Partnership: Ravindra Jadeja, playing his first innings of the series, joined Nitish Kumar Reddy to steady the innings. The duo added 67 runs in 115 balls, frustrating the Australian bowlers before Cummins dismissed Reddy with a clever delivery.
- Jadeja’s Heroics: Jadeja brought up his 22nd Test half-century in style, entertaining fans with his signature sword celebration. His knock of 77 gave India hope as they edged closer to the follow-on target.
Rain Delays and Tea Break
The second session saw heavy rains causing multiple interruptions. India went into Tea at 201/7, just 45 runs shy of avoiding the follow-on. Jadeja and Siraj had shown promise, but Siraj fell immediately after the break to Mitchell Starc, leaving India vulnerable.
Lower-Order Grit Saves the Day
In the final hour of play, Pat Cummins claimed the crucial wicket of Jadeja, but Bumrah and Akash Deep held their ground. Their unbeaten 39-run stand frustrated the Australians, with Akash’s boundary off Cummins sealing India’s escape from the follow-on.
Key Performances
- KL Rahul: The opener stood tall against the Australian attack, scoring a gritty 84 before falling to a spectacular catch by Steve Smith. His partnership with Jadeja gave India some stability.
- Ravindra Jadeja: His 77 off 100 balls was a crucial knock that brought India close to the follow-on mark. His resilience in challenging conditions showcased his value as an all-rounder.
- Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep: The pair’s determined stand under pressure ensured India avoided the ignominy of a follow-on.
Australian Dominance
Australia had started the day as firm favorites, having bundled out India’s top order cheaply. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were relentless with their pace and bounce, while Nathan Lyon extracted sharp turn to trouble the batters. Despite their dominance, the lower order’s resistance kept Australia at bay.
Rain and Light Play Spoilsport
While the rain stayed away for much of the morning session, frequent interruptions during the second session disrupted Australia’s momentum. Bad light eventually brought an early close to play, setting up an intriguing final day.
Score Summary
Australia 1st Innings: 445 (Usman Khawaja 150, Marnus Labuschagne 85, Bumrah 6/76)
India 1st Innings (at Stumps, Day 4): 284/9 (KL Rahul 84, Jadeja 77, Cummins 3/45, Lyon 2/67)
Looking Ahead
India will enter Day 5 with one wicket in hand and a slim chance of reducing the deficit further. Australia, on the other hand, will look to finish the innings quickly and set up a target, depending on the remaining time and weather conditions. The visitors will hope to take positives from their lower-order fightback as they aim to regroup ahead of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
