WATCH: Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir celebrate after Akash Deep’s two big hits ensure India avoid the follow-on in 3rd AUS vs IND 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 and Akash Deep in the Gabba Test. This moment reflected not just relief but also the fighting spirit that has characterized Indian cricket in recent years.

The defiant partnership of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep

On Day 4 of the third Test at the Gabba, India found themselves in a precarious position, trailing by 193 runs with only one wicket remaining. The pressure was palpable as Bumrah and Akash took to the crease, tasked with avoiding the follow-on mark of 246. The two tail-enders showcased remarkable resilience, frustrating the Australia pacers with an unbeaten 39-run partnership for the 10th wicket. Their gritty stand helped India surpass this critical threshold, ending the day at 252/9 before bad light halted play.

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

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

Akash saves the day for India shocking Pat Cummins with two smacks  

As soon as India reached the 245-run mark, Akash executed a cut shot off Cummins that sailed over gully for a boundary, successfully steering India clear of the follow-on. The dressing room erupted with joy, knowing they had accomplished a challenging feat. Following the jubilant celebrations, Akash captured the internet’s attention after launching a massive six off Cummins that sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Akash, who is batting on 27 off 31 balls, had already struck two fours and one six. On the fourth ball of the 75th over, he unleashed a powerful shot off Cummins that soared down the ground. The camera then panned to the dressing room, where Kohli looked astonished by Akash’s batting skills.

Here’s the video:

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

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

Contributions from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to stabilize Indian innings

Earlier in the innings, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja laid a strong 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 alongside Nitish Reddy further solidified India’s position as they fought 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 bowling ensured they maintained pressure throughout.

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

Also WATCH: Pat Cummins’ brilliant delivery sends Nitish Reddy packing on Day 4 of the AUS vs IND 3rd Test