A thunderous roar erupted from the dressing room as Virat Kohli and coach Gautam Gambhir exchanged high-fives after India narrowly avoided the follow-on against Australia thanks to a resilient partnership between jasprit bumrah and Akash Deep in the Gabba Test. This moment reflected not only the relief but also the fighting spirit that has characterized Indian cricket in recent years.
The challenging partnership of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep
On Day 4 of the third Test at the Gabba, India they found themselves in a precarious position, trailing by 193 runs with just one wicket to spare. The pressure was palpable as Bumrah and Akash arrived at the crease, tasked with avoiding the next mark of 246. The two tailbacks showed remarkable resilience, frustrating the Australia pacers with an unbeaten partnership of 39 runs for the 10th wicket. Their gritty attitude helped India clear that crucial mark, ending the day on 252/9 before the bad light stopped.
Bumrah and Akash’s performance was not just about survival. They managed to frustrate Australia’s bowlers, who had earlier dismantled India’s top order with relative ease. Akash’s explosive six fades Pat Cumminsusing a bat gifted by Kohli, it was a highlight that left fans and teammates alike in awe. His celebration after hitting the six encapsulates the joy and relief of the moment, signaling that even the lower order could contribute significantly.
READ ALSO: Fans go wild as Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep help India avoid follow-up against Australia in Gabba Test
Akash saves the day for India, shocking Pat Cummins with two wickets
Once India reached the 245-run mark, Akash executed a cut shot from Cummins that sailed over gully for a boundary, successfully guiding India away from the follow-on. The dressing room erupted with joy, knowing they had accomplished a difficult feat. After the joyous celebrations, Akash grabbed the attention of the internet after hitting a massive six off Cummins that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
Akash, who is hitting 27 off 31 balls, had already hit two fours and a six. On the fourth ball of the 75th over, he unleashed a powerful shot from Cummins that went up the ground. The camera then panned to the dressing room, where Kohli looked stunned by Akash’s batting skills.
Here’s the video:
Akash Deep makes sure India avoid the follow on and then smashes Pat Cummins at the second level!#AUSWIND pic.twitter.com/HIu86M7BNW
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024
Contributions from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to stabilize India’s innings
Earlier in the innings, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja laid a solid foundation for India with impressive half-centuries. Their partnership added 67 runs for the sixth wicket, providing crucial stability after a disastrous start that saw India reel at 51/4. Rahul’s top score of 84 runs was instrumental in keeping India afloat in turbulent times. Jadeja’s contributions in tandem Nitish Reddy further dried up India’s position as they struggled to avoid a follow-on and keep their hopes alive in the match.
Despite these efforts, Australia’s bowling attack remained relentless. Cummins emerged as the most successful bowler, claiming four wickets for 80 runs, while Mitchell Starc added three more to his tally. His absence Josh Hazlewood due to injury was noticeable but Australia’s bowling depth ensured they kept the pressure on throughout.
The match was marred by weather interruptions, with persistent rain causing multiple delays and significantly curtailing play. On Day 3 alone, only 33 overs were bowled due to rain interruption. Forecasts call for more wet weather, making a tie increasingly likely. With India trailing by 193 runs at stumps on Day 4, their focus will turn to retaining their wickets and salvaging a result from this challenging encounter.
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