Brisbane: Ravindra Jadeja showcased his resilience with a crucial half-century, steering India to 201/7 at tea on Day 4 of the third Test against Australia. With 45 more runs needed to avoid the follow-on, India is inching closer to forcing the hosts to bat again, potentially securing a draw in this rain-affected match.
Jadeja, in partnership with Nitish Kumar Reddy, added a vital 53-run stand for the seventh wicket, building on KL Rahul’s impressive 84. Although India trails by 244 runs, Jadeja’s unbeaten 56 has provided a glimmer of hope as he is accompanied by Mohammed Siraj, who remains on 1.
Jadeja’s Vital Contribution
Jadeja’s selection over R. Ashwin and Washington Sundar raised eyebrows, but his composed batting silenced critics. The left-hander, averaging over 54 in Australia, has consistently delivered with scores of 65, 28, 57, and 81 in his recent innings on Australian soil. His ability to score down the ground and square of the wicket minimized risks, as he avoided getting caught behind or in the slips.
Bringing up his 22nd Test fifty off 89 balls, Jadeja used sweeps effectively against Nathan Lyon, showcasing his adaptability against spin. Nitish Kumar Reddy also deserves credit for providing solid support, prioritizing time at the crease over quick runs, given the unpredictable weather in Brisbane.
Unfortunate Dismissal for Nitish
Pat Cummins ended Nitish’s determined innings with a delivery that climbed and was dragged onto the stumps. His dismissal came moments before tea was called following another rain interruption, leaving Jadeja to anchor the innings further.
Rahul’s Classy Knock
Earlier in the day, KL Rahul stood tall against a disciplined Australian bowling attack. Starting from an overnight score of 51/4, India needed someone to lead the fight, and Rahul answered the call. His partnership of 67 runs with Jadeja for the sixth wicket steadied the innings before his dismissal to a stunning catch by Steve Smith off Lyon’s bowling.
Rahul’s innings, marked by patience and technical skill, earned him his 17th Test fifty. Fortune also favored him early on when Smith dropped a regulation catch at slip off Pat Cummins’ first delivery of the day. Rahul capitalized on the reprieve, displaying maturity in his shot selection and solid defensive technique.
Rohit’s Missed Opportunity
Skipper Rohit Sharma, however, failed to make an impact, edging a delivery from Cummins to Alex Carey behind the stumps. His dismissal was another blow to India, as the team struggled to rebuild after losing early wickets.
Australia’s Bowling Effort
The Australian pace attack, led by Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, posed consistent challenges, though they missed Josh Hazlewood, who left the field after bowling just one over due to injury. Despite the setback, the Australian bowlers maintained pressure, keeping the visitors in check.
The Road Ahead
With rain continuing to disrupt play, India’s focus remains on avoiding the follow-on and forcing Australia to bat again. Jadeja’s determined performance has kept the visitors in the hunt, but the final session promises to be a stern test against a relentless Australian attack.
