December 16, 2024 | Brisbane
In the match between Australia Vs India, Australia stands on the brink of taking a crucial lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as erratic weather and relentless pace bowling brought the third Test firmly under their control at the Gabba. With the series level at 1-1, the hosts demonstrated dominance despite frequent rain interruptions that turned Monday into a battle of patience.
At stumps on Day 3, India was reeling at 51 for 4, trailing Australia’s formidable first-innings total of 445 by a daunting 394 runs. As ominous clouds and intermittent showers loomed over Brisbane, Australia’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc, capitalized on favourable conditions to dismantle India’s top order.
Australia Vs India: Mitchell Starc once again proved to be India’s nemesis
Mitchell Starc once again proved to be India’s nemesis, delivering a fiery spell that sent opener Yashasvi Jaiswal packing after just two balls. Attempting an aggressive shot, Jaiswal fell to a well-directed delivery that found the fielder at short mid-wicket.
Starc wasn’t done yet. His lethal pace accounted for Shubman Gill, whose tentative poke outside off-stump resulted in a spectacular catch by Mitchell Marsh in the slip cordon. Starc’s brilliance has been a recurring theme this series, causing constant trouble for the Indian batters.
Josh Hazlewood added to India’s woes by dismissing a subdued Virat Kohli. The veteran batter, who dazzled with a century in Perth, was caught behind after chasing a wide delivery. At 22 for 3, India’s hopes of stability rested on the shoulders of Rishabh Pant and K.L. Rahul. However, Pant’s attempt to curb his natural instincts ended in disappointment as he edged a Pat Cummins delivery, leaving India teetering at 44 for 4.
Rain Disrupts Play, Adds to the Drama
The day’s play was punctuated by frequent rain delays, forcing players to shuttle between the field and the dressing room. While fans huddled under umbrellas, warm cups of coffee became a welcome reprieve in the stands. Despite the interruptions, Australia remained focused on their mission to grind India into submission.
Through the chaos, K.L. Rahul displayed remarkable grit, anchoring the innings with a patient 33*. Joined by skipper Rohit Sharma, who managed to survive six deliveries before stumps, Rahul held on as India faced an uphill battle to avoid a follow-on.
Australia’s Tail Wags to Extend the Lead
Earlier in the day, Australia resumed their first innings at 405 for 7 with a clear intent to extend their lead. Starc showcased his all-round prowess, smashing a six off Ravindra Jadeja and a boundary off Jasprit Bumrah before falling for 18. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey continued his aggressive approach, hammering a six off debutant Akash Deep before perishing for a well-made 70.
India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah’s six-wicket haul, eventually wrapped up the Australian innings for 445. Akash Deep’s perseverance paid off as he claimed Carey’s wicket, providing a moment of relief for the visitors. However, Australia’s late-order contributions ensured a massive first-innings total that left India under significant pressure.
Challenges Mount for India
The Gabba pitch, known for its bounce and movement, has so far favored Australia’s pacers, leaving India’s batters with little room for error. To complicate matters further, unpredictable weather threatens to disrupt any attempts at recovery over the next two days.
Rohit Sharma’s men now face the herculean task of bridging a 394-run deficit while battling a confident Australian attack. With Starc in prime form and Hazlewood and Cummins providing ample support, the odds are heavily stacked against the visitors.
Series Decider in Sight
Australia’s commanding performance has brought them tantalizingly close to taking a 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. A victory here would set the stage for a thrilling finale, with both teams vying for supremacy in one of cricket’s most fiercely contested rivalries.
As the Test enters its final two days, much will depend on how India’s middle and lower order respond to Australia’s relentless pressure. Can K.L. Rahul and Rohit Sharma stage a miraculous fightback, or will the Australian bowlers continue their rampage to seal a historic win at the Gabba? Fans around the world wait with bated breath as this gripping contest unfolds.
Key Stats:
- Australia’s First Innings Total: 445 (Travis Head 152, Steve Smith 101; Bumrah 6-76)
- India’s Current Score: 51/4 (K.L. Rahul 33*, Rohit Sharma 0*)
- Top Performers: Mitchell Starc (2-25), Josh Hazlewood (1-17), Pat Cummins (1-7)
The weather may be unpredictable, but Australia’s march towards victory appears steadfast. As Brisbane braces for another day of drama, one thing is clear: the Gabba Test is heading towards an unforgettable finish.
