WATCH: Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir celebrate after Akash Deep’s two big hits ensure India avoid follow-on in AUS vs IND 3rd Test

A thunderous roar erupted from the dressing room as Virat Kohli and coach Gautam Gambhir exchanged high fives after India narrowly avoided the follow-on against Australia, thanks to a resilient partnership between jasprit bumrah i Akash Deep at the Gabba Test. This moment reflected not only the relief but also the fighting spirit that has characterized Indian cricket in recent years.

The challenging partnership of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep

On Day 4 of the third Test at the Gabba, India they found themselves in a precarious position, losing by 193 runs with just one wicket remaining. The pressure was palpable as Bumrah and Akash took the crease, tasked with avoiding the chase mark of 246. Both ends of the tail showed remarkable resilience, thwarting the Australia pacers with an unbeaten partnership of 39 runs for the 10th wicket. His tough stance helped India clear that critical threshold, ending the day on 252/9 before bad light brought play to a halt.

Bumrah and Akash’s performance was not just about survival. They managed to frustrate Australia’s bowlers, who had earlier dismantled India’s top order with relative ease. Akash’s six blasters off Pat Cumminswith a bat gifted by Kohli, it was the highlight that left fans and teammates alike in awe. His celebration after hitting the six encapsulated the joy and relief of the moment, indicating that even the lower order could contribute significantly.

READ also: Fans go wild as Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep help India avoid follow-on against Australia in Gabba Test

Akash saves the day for India by hitting Pat Cummins with two strikes

As soon as India reached the 245-run mark, Akash executed a cut shot to Cummins that sailed over gully for a boundary, successfully keeping India out of the follow-on. The locker room erupted in joy, knowing they had accomplished a defiant feat. After the jubilant celebrations, Akash grabbed the internet’s attention after he hit a huge six on Cummins that sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Akash, who is batting on 27 off 31 balls, had already hit two fours and a six. On the fourth ball of 75, he bowled a powerful shot from Cummins that rocketed down the ground. The camera then panned to the dressing room, where Kohli looked awestruck by Akash’s batting skills.

Here is the video:

Akash Deep makes sure India avoid the follow-on and then smashes Pat Cummins at the second level!#AUSWIN pic.twitter.com/HIu86M7BNW

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024

Contributions from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to stabilize the Indian innings

Before the entrances, KL Rahul i Ravindra Jadeja laid a solid foundation for India with impressive half-centuries. Their partnership added 67 runs for the sixth wicket, providing crucial stability after a disastrous start that saw India reeling at 51/4. Rahul’s top score of 84 runs was instrumental in keeping India afloat during turbulent times. Jadeja’s contributions in the side Nitish Reddy further cemented India’s position as they battled to avoid a follow-on and keep their hopes alive in the match.

Despite these efforts, Australia’s bowling attack remained relentless. Cummins emerged as the most successful bowler, claiming four wickets for 80 runs, while Mitchell Starc added three more to his tally. The absence of Josh Hazlewood due to injury was felt, but Australia’s depth in the bowling ensured they kept the pressure on throughout.

The match has been affected by weather disruptions, with persistent rain causing multiple delays and significantly limiting play. On Day 3 alone, only 33 overs were bowled due to rain interruptions. Forecasts suggest wetter weather, making a draw increasingly likely. With India trailing by 193 runs at stumps on Day 4, their focus will shift to preserving their wickets and salvaging a result in this challenging encounter.

Also WATCH: Brilliant delivery from Pat Cummins sends Nitish Reddy packing on Day 4 of third Test AUS vs IND