Steve Smith’s One-Handed Catch Dismisses KL Rahul
On Day 4 of the Gabba Test, Steve Smith stunned fans. He made a one-handed catch to dismiss KL Rahul in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This breakthrough came in the third Test. India struggled to gain momentum against Australia’s relentless bowling.
The wicket of KL Rahul, who had been India’s top performer in the series, marked a turning point. Smith’s ecstatic roar after the catch showed the match’s intensity. Australia had India at 141/6.
KL Rahul’s Crucial Innings Cut Short
KL Rahul entered Day 4 as India’s best batter. He scored 84, continuing his good form. With great skill and composure, Rahul seemed set to rescue India after early failures. However, a sharp turning delivery from Nathan Lyon caught the edge of his bat. It flew toward first slip, ending his innings.
At first slip, Steve Smith made up for dropping Rahul by taking a great one-handed catch. The ball, traveling fast to Smith’s right, seemed doomed to hit the turf. But the former Australian captain leaped and caught it with his outstretched hand.
Smith’s Redemption Moment
The intensity of the moment was palpable. After securing the catch, Smith roared in celebration. His raw emotion resonated across the Gabba. Teammates rushed to congratulate him, aware of the significance of Rahul’s dismissal. For Smith, it was redemption for the missed chance earlier in the day.
A STUNNER FROM STEVE SMITH 😳
– End of a class knock from KL Rahul. pic.twitter.com/WhkMmcodPB
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 17, 2024
Rahul’s departure was a massive setback for India. The partnership between Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja was stabilizing the innings. It ended abruptly.
India in Danger of Follow-On
India began the day at 124/4 with KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma at the crease. Sharma fell early to Australia’s disciplined attack. Jadeja then partnered with Rahul. Together, they weathered a challenging phase of spin and pace.
However, the loss of Rahul left India vulnerable, with the score at 141/6 and a follow-on looming. The Gabba surface had variable bounce and turn. It tested India’s resilience. Australia’s bowlers took every chance to exploit it.
Game-Changing Moments in Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Steve Smith’s one-handed catch is a highlight of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. It showed his brilliance as a fielder. It also highlighted the series’ intensity. With India on the brink and Australia in control, the third Test will be dramatic. The fight for the trophy is on.
