Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep’s Heroics Help India Avoid Follow-On. The fourth day of the gripping third Test between India and Australia witnessed high drama and an incredible fightback from India. The visitors, who were on the brink of being asked to follow on, narrowly managed to avoid it thanks to a determined effort from Jasprit Bumrah and debutant Akash Deep. At stumps, India stood at 252/9, trailing Australia by 193 runs.
In what turned out to be a thrilling session of play, India’s lower-order resilience frustrated the Australian bowling attack, led by skipper Pat Cummins and pace spearhead Mitchell Starc.
India’s Top Order Falters Again
India’s top order faced significant challenges on Day 4, as Australia’s bowling attack exploited the conditions to perfection. After resuming at a shaky overnight score, India lost early wickets. Batters struggled to counter Australia’s disciplined lines and lengths, resulting in a series of dismissals.
KL Rahul was the standout performer among India’s top-order batters, showcasing grit and determination. His well-compiled 84 steadied the innings for a brief period, offering India some hope. However, his dismissal proved to be a turning point as Australia regained control of the proceedings.
Ravindra Jadeja’s Resilient Knock
Amidst the flurry of wickets, Ravindra Jadeja played a crucial role in rebuilding India’s innings. Jadeja’s fighting knock of 77 not only steadied the ship but also kept the scoreboard ticking. His ability to counter-attack the Australian bowlers helped India inch closer to avoiding the follow-on.
Jadeja, known for his versatility with both bat and ball, once again displayed his value to the Indian team. His partnerships in the middle order ensured that India didn’t collapse under pressure.
Bumrah and Akash Deep’s Heroic Fightback
As the innings progressed, India’s lower order found themselves under immense pressure with Australia pushing hard for the final wicket to enforce the follow-on. That’s when Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep joined forces to script a remarkable fightback.
Akash Deep, playing in his debut Test match, showed exceptional composure and confidence. His impressive knock of 27 not out defied the Australian pacers and frustrated the opposition. At the other end, Jasprit Bumrah, who remained unbeaten on 10, provided vital support, ensuring India narrowly avoided the follow-on.
The duo’s unyielding partnership drew praise for its grit and determination, as they survived a challenging spell of pace and swing bowling under fading light.
Australia’s Bowling Dominance
The Australian bowlers were relentless throughout the day, maintaining consistent pressure on India.
- Pat Cummins, leading from the front, was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 4 wickets. His impeccable control and attacking mindset kept the Indian batters on their toes.
- Mitchell Starc, with his raw pace and ability to extract bounce, secured 3 key wickets and troubled India’s lineup throughout the day.
- Supporting pacers and spinners also played their roles efficiently, creating continuous opportunities for breakthroughs.
However, the late resistance by India’s lower order meant Australia’s follow-on plans were dashed.
Bad Light Brings an Early End
Just as the contest was heating up, bad light forced the umpires to call stumps early. The fading conditions deprived Australia of further opportunities to dismiss the final wicket, leaving India at 252/9.
The early close of play added to the tension, with Day 5 now promising an enthralling finish as both teams look to capitalize on the situation.
Key Performers of Day 4
- KL Rahul – Anchored India’s innings with a fighting 84.
- Ravindra Jadeja – Scored a vital 77 to keep India in the game.
- Akash Deep – An impressive debut with 27 not out under pressure.
- Jasprit Bumrah – Contributed a crucial unbeaten 10 and supported the fightback.
- Pat Cummins – Australia’s best bowler with 4 wickets.
- Mitchell Starc – Bagged 3 wickets and tested India with his pace.
What to Expect on Day 5
With India still trailing by 193 runs and just one wicket remaining, the final day of the Test match promises high stakes and intense action. Australia will look to wrap up the Indian innings quickly and assert their dominance, while India’s last pair will aim to prolong their resistance and reduce the deficit as much as possible.
For India, the focus will be on their bowling attack, which will need to deliver a standout performance to keep the match alive. With players like Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja in form, the Indian camp will remain hopeful of an unexpected twist.
Conclusion
Day 4 of the third Test between India and Australia was a testament to the resilience and determination of both sides. While Australia dominated for most of the day, India’s lower-order fightback, led by Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah, ensured they avoided the follow-on and kept their hopes alive.
As cricket fans gear up for the final day, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to what has been an extraordinary contest between two cricketing giants.
