Key Highlights:
- Persistent rain disrupts the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia at Brisbane’s Gabba.
- Only 13.2 overs played on Day 1; frequent interruptions on Days 3 and 4 due to heavy showers.
- 90% chance of rain on Day 5, threatening a decisive finish in the match.
- India avoids follow-on thanks to a resilient last-wicket partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akashdeep.
- India trails by 193 runs at stumps on Day 4 with 252/9 on the board.
Brisbane: The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia at Brisbane’s Gabba has been plagued by persistent rain, leading to multiple stoppages and uncertainty over a decisive result. As the match enters its final day, cricket fans are left wondering whether the rain will spoil the much-anticipated climax.
The opening day of the Test saw heavy showers restrict play to just 13.2 overs, setting a frustrating tone for the match. While a full day’s play was possible on Day 2, the weather again played spoilsport on Days 3 and 4. On the third day, rain halted proceedings as many as eight times, causing significant disruptions. Day 4 was no different, with the game being stopped on four occasions due to showers.
Day 5 Weather Forecast: Rain Likely to Disrupt Play
The outlook for the fifth day remains grim. According to AccuWeather, there is a 90% chance of rain, and the sky is expected to stay overcast throughout the day. Temperatures are forecasted to range between a minimum of 18°C and a maximum of 31°C, with winds blowing at approximately 13 km/h.
This raises concerns for fans and players alike, as the possibility of a rain-affected draw looms large.
India Avoids Follow-On: Bumrah-Akashdeep Partnership a Saving Grace
At one point during Day 4, India looked destined to face the follow-on, but a spirited effort from the tail-enders turned the tide. Jasprit Bumrah and Akashdeep stitched together an unbeaten 39-run stand for the 10th wicket, ensuring that India avoided further embarrassment.
By the end of Day 4, India stood at 252/9, trailing Australia by 193 runs.
- Akashdeep remained unbeaten on 27 runs from 31 balls, which included two fours and a six, showcasing unexpected composure and attacking flair.
- Jasprit Bumrah, on the other hand, held fort with 10* runs off 27 deliveries, including a remarkable six that lifted the spirits of the Indian camp.
Match Status After Day 4: India Struggles to Keep Pace
Despite the late heroics, India remains under pressure, significantly behind Australia’s commanding first-innings total. The hosts’ bowlers kept up the intensity, reducing India’s top and middle order to rubble before the Bumrah-Akashdeep stand.
What Lies Ahead?
As the rain clouds loom large over Brisbane, fans are left hoping for a window of play on Day 5 to witness a competitive finish. Australia remains in the driver’s seat, while India’s hopes rest on the resilience of its bowlers and a miracle with the bat.
