Day 3 of the thrilling encounter between India and Australia in the Test match witnessed a remarkable fightback from the Indian team, led by Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur. The duo showcased tremendous resilience during their crucial seventh-wicket partnership, frustrating the Australian bowlers and salvaging some pride for India.
Rahane and Thakur steady India’s collapse
Rahane and Thakur joined forces when India’s innings seemed to be teetering on the edge. The pair exhibited exceptional batting skills and temperament, stitching together a resilient stand of 109 runs off just 145 balls. Their partnership ensured that India suffered just one loss in the first session, averting a potential collapse.
However, the second session saw the downfall of Rahane, who was dismissed on 89 by the relentless Pat Cummins. A stunning catch at gully by Cameron Green added to the dramatic turn of events. Thakur valiantly carried on, reaching a well-deserved half-century, but his inning was eventually curtailed by Green, who proved to be a thorn in India’s side once again. Thakur departed on 51, leaving India in a vulnerable position with just one wicket to spare.
The final wicket controversy
The final wicket of the Indian innings was not without controversy. A yorker from Chris Green struck Mohammed Siraj‘s pads, prompting a unanimous appeal from the Australian team. The umpire swiftly raised his finger, igniting the Aussies’ celebrations. However, Siraj had the presence of mind to utilize India’s remaining review and challenge the decision. The subsequent replay proved vital, as it overturned the initial decision, sparing Siraj from dismissal.
In a comical turn of events, the Australian players, having left the field in anticipation of batting again, were forced to return as the review verdict favored India. David Warner and Usman Khawaja, the Aussie openers, had already started preparing, strapping on their pads, anticipating their turn to showcase their batting prowess.
Australia take commanding lead
The abrupt change in proceedings brought a brief moment of levity to the intensity of the match. However, their respite was short-lived, as Mitchell Starc swiftly dismissed Mohammed Shami, drawing the Indian innings to a close.
With the fall of Shami’s wicket, the Indian innings came to a close, with the team’s total reaching 296 runs. Australia seized the opportunity to take a commanding first-innings lead of 173 runs, bolstering their position in the match. Australia’s substantial first-innings lead puts them in a dominant position as the Test match progresses. India will need a remarkable comeback with both bat and ball to level the playing field and mount a significant challenge against the determined Australian team.
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