In a remarkable display of resilience, India managed to avoid the follow-on on Day 4 of the third Test against Australia in Brisbane, leaving cricket fans and the dressing room electrified. Despite being on the back foot with the scoreboard reading 51/4 at the start of the day, India staged an incredible fightback led by Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah. Although a win seems out of reach, the team’s determination turned what appeared to be an inevitable loss into a potential draw that feels like a victory.
A Tough Task Made Possible
India’s primary challenge was to surpass the 246-run follow-on mark after starting the day in a precarious position. When the team lost their ninth wicket at 213, leaving them 33 runs short, the odds looked bleak. However, an exceptional partnership between Bumrah and debutant Akash Deep turned the tide. The pair added 39 unbeaten runs in just 54 balls, propelling India to 252/9 by stumps and ensuring Australia would have to bat again.
Bumrah, who had earlier defended his batting abilities in a press conference, backed up his words with an unbeaten 10 off 27 deliveries. The real hero, however, was Akash Deep, who struck a fearless 27 off 31 balls, including a towering six and several crucial boundaries.
Gambhir’s Euphoria and Kohli’s Amazement
The dramatic end to the day’s play saw emotions running high in the Indian camp. With just over 30 runs needed, Bumrah kickstarted the comeback with a swatted six off Pat Cummins, setting the tone. Akash Deep then took charge, finding the boundary with confidence and collecting quick doubles alongside Bumrah.
The pivotal moment came when Akash edged Cummins over the slip cordon for four, sparking wild celebrations in the Indian dressing room. Head coach Gautam Gambhir leapt out of his seat in joy, while Virat Kohli enthusiastically joined the high-fives. The climax arrived when Akash smashed a massive six over long-on, leaving Kohli visibly awestruck, his jaw dropping in admiration.
Play was eventually halted due to bad light, but the effort from the two tailenders left India with plenty to celebrate.
The Foundation: Jadeja and Rahul
Before Bumrah and Akash’s heroics, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul had laid a crucial platform with their gritty half-centuries. After captain Rohit Sharma fell cheaply for 10, Jadeja and Rahul stitched together a 67-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
Rahul, who was dropped early by Steve Smith, capitalized on the reprieve to score his second half-century of the series. Meanwhile, Jadeja, playing his first match of the series, justified his status as the top-ranked all-rounder with a brilliant knock of 77, featuring seven fours and a six.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite trailing by 193 runs, India’s spirited fightback has won admiration from fans and experts alike. With rain predicted for the final day, a draw seems likely, ensuring the series remains level at 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
This performance marks a significant display of determination, and irrespective of the final result, India has shown incredible resilience under pressure.
