IND vs AUS: Rain and Resilience Define Day 4
A thrilling Day 4 of the IND vs AUS 3rd Test saw India fight their way past the follow-on mark, ending the day at 252/9, thanks to a gritty 39-run partnership from tail-enders Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep. Despite a rain-curtailed day, the two ensured India avoided the embarrassment of a follow-on against a determined Australian bowling attack.
KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja Lead India’s Fight
The day began with India in a precarious position, but KL Rahul (84) and Ravindra Jadeja (77) rose to the occasion, anchoring the innings and keeping Australia at bay. Both missed their well-deserved centuries but brought India close enough for the lower order to scrape through the follow-on mark.
Bumrah-Akash Heroics Frustrate Australia
When it seemed India might fall short, Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep stood tall. Their unbeaten last-wicket partnership of 39 runs was a testament to their resolve. Bumrah’s pull shot off Pat Cummins for a six became the highlight of the day, leaving Australian bowlers scratching their heads.
Australia’s Bowling Struggles
Australia, missing the services of Josh Hazlewood due to injury, couldn’t mount consistent pressure. While Pat Cummins (4/80) and Mitchell Starc (3/83) did their best, Nathan Lyon’s spin (1/54) failed to trouble the Indian batters on a damp surface. With the ball losing its bite after rain interruptions, batting became easier for India.
Rain Dominates Yet Again
A significant portion of the first and second sessions was lost to rain, providing much-needed respite for the Indian batting lineup. The rain also softened the ball, making it harder for the Australians to extract movement or bounce.
Rohit Sharma’s Struggles Continue
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s poor form persisted, managing only 11 runs before falling to a familiar mistake, chasing a delivery outside off. His repeated failures as a captain and batsman have amplified calls for him to step down.
What Lies Ahead?
As Day 5 approaches, the match appears destined for a draw. With India avoiding the follow-on and Australia needing to bat again, rain seems poised to be the ultimate decider. However, if the weather clears, fans may yet witness some drama on the final day of this captivating Test.
