Indian fast bowler Akash Deep, who has been included in the Indian playing XI replacing Harshit Rana, proved his worth for the Indian side. The pacer smashed Australian captain Pat Cummins for a huge six to the second level, avoiding the follow-on for India. A thunderous cheer erupted from the dressing room as Virat Kohli and coach Gautam Gambhir shared high fives, with every player celebrating the iconic six.
In the third Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Gabba, the Australian side was edging ahead in the match, with their pacers dominating India’s top order. Despite some resistance from the middle order, India struggled to gain momentum, and the Australians looked set to take control. The lower order helped the Indian side to avoid follow-on and keep the Indian hopes alive for drawing the match.
Jasprit Bumrah and Akash displayed exceptional grit, defying the Australian pacers with an unbroken 39-run stand for the final wicket. Their resilient partnership took India past the follow-on target of 246 on Day 4 of the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. Battling intense pressure, the two tail-enders showcased remarkable composure and technique, steering India to a total of 252/9 at stumps.
Since the start of day 4, the match has been stopped at regular intervals due to rain and bad lighting. Bad light brought play to a halt late in the day, and with more rain expected on Wednesday, a draw seems nearly certain. After four days of action, India are trailing Australia by 193 runs, with the hosts having set a formidable total of 445 in their first inning.
In the 75th over, captain Pat Cummins took the charge of bowling against the Indian lower order. Akash Deep, who smashed a four in the second ball, was looking confident while facing the Australian bowler. Cummins bowled a fuller-length ball towards the middle stump. The Indian batter swung the bat with full power, which resulted in a six on second level.
The shot was followed by a loud cheer from the fans, with excitement filling the dressing room as well. The players and coaching staff in the locker room shared the joy of the moment.