Stumps, Day 3: Team India played very well on Day 3 of the BGT 2024/25 Test series. They proved their dominance over Australia. On a Super Sunday for Indian cricket, the visitors now control the Test. Australia is on the back foot as they try to take the lead in the five-match series.
India has now dominated seven straight sessions. The first and last hours of the day were especially good. Here’s a detailed recap of the action-packed day.
A Strong Start: Jaiswal and Rahul Extend the Partnership
The Indian openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, resumed from 172/0. They added 29 runs in the first hour. They continued their fine form. Mitchell Starc finally broke the massive opening partnership. He dismissed KL Rahul for a well-made 77 off 176 balls.
KL Rahul’s Innings in Numbers:
- Runs: 77
- Balls Faced: 176
- Fours: 5
- Strike Rate:75
Devdutt Padikkal Settles In: Solid Partnership with Jaiswal
Following Rahul’s departure, Devdutt Padikkal walked in at No. 3. The left-hander started cautiously but soon found his rhythm. He partnered with Jaiswal to add 74 runs for the second wicket. This further solidified India’s dominance.
The duo took India to lunch, with Jaiswal anchoring the innings.
Key Contributions Before Lunch:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: A steady hand, building on his overnight performance.
- Partnership Runs (2nd Wicket): 74
Post-Lunch Drama: Australia Strikes Back
Australia found some rhythm in the afternoon session. Josh Hazlewood struck immediately after lunch. Hazlewood removed Devdutt Padikkal for 25 runs, breaking the growing partnership.
This caused a mini-collapse for India. The hosts took three quick wickets in just 30 minutes. Key dismissals in this phase included Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel. They both fell cheaply, scoring just 1 run each.
Australia’s Best Phase of the Day:
- Key Bowler: Josh Hazlewood
- Wickets Taken: 3 (Padikkal, Pant, Jurel)
Jaiswal Shines Amidst the Collapse
Despite losing wickets quickly, Yashasvi Jaiswal held firm. He kept India in control of the match. Jaiswal’s calm innings showed he is a top batsman in foreign conditions.
Notable Records and Stats
As the match progressed, some key stats emerged. They emphasized India’s dominance in the series.
Away Batters with Most Test Hundreds in Australia:
- 9 – Jack Hobbs (England)
- 7 – Wally Hammond (England)
- 7 – Virat Kohli (India)*
- 6 – Herbert Sutcliffe (England)
- 6 – Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Virat Kohli’s remarkable consistency proves he is one of the best visiting batters in Australia.
Most Catches by Indians in Tests (Excluding Wicketkeepers):
- 210 – Rahul Dravid
- 135 – VVS Laxman
- 116 – Virat Kohli*
- 115 – Sachin Tendulkar
