Bumrah and Akash Deep’s Gritty Partnership Saves India from Follow-On in Gabba Test

A thunderous roar echoed from the Indian dressing room as Virat Kohli and coach Gautam Gambhir exchanged high-fives after India narrowly avoided the follow-on against Australia in the third Test at the Gabba, Brisbane. The heroics came courtesy of a resilient partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, who battled hard to frustrate the Australian pacers.

Bumrah and Akash Deep’s Defiant Stand

In an intense session on Day 4, Bumrah and Akash Deep put on an unbeaten 39-run partnership for the 10th wicket, successfully helping India surpass the follow-on mark of 246. Despite immense pressure, the two tailenders showed exceptional composure and technical skill, ensuring India ended the day at 252/9.

This gritty partnership was pivotal in preventing India from having to bat again, giving the team a glimmer of hope for a potential draw on the final day. With bad light halting play late in the day, and wet weather forecast for Wednesday, a draw now appears inevitable. As of Day 4, India trailed Australia by 193 runs, with the hosts having posted a substantial 445 in their first innings.

India’s Top Performers on Day 4

Earlier in the day, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja played crucial roles in building India’s innings. Rahul scored a well-fought 84 runs, top-scoring for India before being dismissed by Nathan Lyon, caught by Steve Smith. Jadeja added a vital half-century, combining with Nitish Reddy for a valuable stand. However, it was the lower order, especially Bumrah and Akash Deep, who held off the Australian bowlers in the latter stages of the day.

Australia’s Bowling Efforts

Pat Cummins emerged as the most successful bowler for Australia, claiming 4 wickets for 80 runs. Mitchell Starc was also impressive, taking 3 wickets for 83 runs. Nathan Lyon chipped in with 1 wicket for 54 runs. The Australian bowlers worked relentlessly, but Bumrah and Akash Deep’s defiance ensured that India survived through to the end of Day 4.

Weather Disruptions

Weather interruptions have heavily impacted the Brisbane Test, with persistent rain and bad light disrupting play throughout the match. There were eight stoppages on Day 3, and multiple delays on Day 4, including an early close of play due to bad light. Cricket Australia even refunded tickets for the opening day, where only 13 overs were bowled.

Key Takeaways

Bumrah and Akash Deep‘s 39-run partnership for the 10th wicket helped India avoid the follow-on, finishing Day 4 at 252/9.
KL Rahul top-scored with 84 runs, and Ravindra Jadeja contributed a valuable half-century.
Pat Cummins led the Australian attack, taking 4 wickets for 80 runs, while Mitchell Starc claimed 3 for 83.
Bad light and rain delays continue to disrupt the match, with a draw looking likely.
India trails Australia by 193 runs at the end of Day 4, with the hosts posting 445 in their first innings.