India’s spirited performance on the final day of the third Test against Australia in Brisbane has given the team renewed confidence as they gear up for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri shared his insights into the team’s resilience and the dressing room celebrations that followed their successful effort to avoid the follow-on.
Tailenders Step Up Under Pressure
Facing the daunting task of avoiding a follow-on with 36 runs still needed, India’s tailenders Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep put on a determined display. Their partnership proved to be a game-changing moment as they pushed India past the follow-on mark. Reflecting on this effort, Shastri highlighted the grit and character shown by the pair during a critical phase of the match.
“It was an incredible effort from the last pair. Scoring 35-36 runs in such a high-pressure situation required immense determination,” Shastri remarked.
Celebrations Reflect the Team’s Spirit
Shastri also praised the Indian team’s reaction to the milestone, emphasizing the importance of celebrating such achievements in the context of the series. “You should celebrate moments like these,” he said. “It showed they understood how significant that effort was within the dressing room.”
The former coach elaborated on the broader impact of the moment, explaining that avoiding the follow-on wasn’t just about survival. “It’s not just about avoiding the follow-on; it’s about gaining the momentum to put pressure on the Australian top-order. That celebration was completely justified,” Shastri said.
Boost Ahead of Boxing Day Test
Looking ahead to the Boxing Day Test, Shastri expressed optimism about India’s chances. He believes the team’s ability to hold their ground in Brisbane, even under challenging circumstances, has provided them with a psychological edge.
“This performance will give the Indian team a lot of confidence going into Melbourne,” Shastri said. “For me, the series is now evenly poised, and India might just have the upper hand.”
The Bigger Picture
Shastri also reflected on the importance of maintaining parity in an overseas series. “In a series like this, a 1-1 scoreline after three Tests is invaluable. Any team touring Australia would be happy with that,” he noted. “With Melbourne and Sydney coming up, I believe India will be a formidable force.”
India’s resilience at the Gabba has not only set the tone for the remainder of the series but has also showcased their fighting spirit, giving fans plenty of reasons to believe in their team’s potential.
