India Avoid Follow-On as Akash Deep and Bumrah Shine on Day 4 at the Gabba

On Day 4 of the third Test, India avoided the follow-on against Australia at the Gabba. A heroic last-wicket stand between Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah saved them. Their spirited stand helped India reach 252/9. This forced Australia to bat again despite a 193-run lead.

The day ended with stumps being called early due to bad light. Australia was in a strong position, but the visitors showed great grit.

Akash Deep and Bumrah Lead Late-Order Resistance

The Indian dressing room erupted in celebration. Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah had defied Australia’s bowlers. They put up a gutsy last-wicket stand. Akash, breaking from defense, stunned Pat Cummins with a massive six. It soared into the second tier, over mid-wicket.

Their fightback was key to avoiding the follow-on. It relieved and thrilled skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the dressing room.

Australia’s Bowling Attack Dominates Early

Australia’s bowling unit, led by captain Pat Cummins, dominated all day. Nathan Lyon struck first, dismissing KL Rahul for 84. Steve Smith at slip made a sensational diving catch. Rahul’s knock was India’s highest score. It kept their hopes alive before Lyon’s breakthrough.

Cummins kept up the pressure. He removed Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja in a tireless spell. Jadeja, however, fought valiantly with a crucial 77. He added important runs with the lower order before Cummins got him.

Mitchell Starc joined the attack late in the day. He took the wicket of Mohammed Siraj, leaving India on the brink.

Rohit Sharma’s Struggles Continue

Rohit Sharma’s lean patch continued. The Indian skipper made just 10 runs off 27 balls before falling early. His dismissal put more pressure on India’s middle and lower order to save the innings. Jadeja, Rahul, and the tailenders did this task well.

Rain and Bad Light Interrupt Play

Day 4 at the Gabba saw rain and bad light disrupt play. The final stoppage came late in the evening session. Play was then called off due to insufficient light.

With rain expected on Day 5, time may affect the Test’s outcome.

Session Breakdown – Day 4

Session 1: 32 Overs, 116 Runs, 2 Wickets
Session 2:2 Overs, 34 Runs, 1 Wicket
Session 3:3 Overs, 51 Runs, 2 Wickets

With a 193-run lead, Australia must now decide. Should they enforce their dominance or manage the weather delays? Some think they might forfeit their second innings. This would give their bowlers a chance to bowl India out again on the final day.

India will try to use their momentum from avoiding the follow-on. They want to carry their fighting spirit into Day 5.