IND vs AUS: The much-awaited third Test of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which commenced today at the Gabba in Brisbane, was drenched in relentless rain that has led to the abandonment of the entire first day’s play. India, having won the toss, elected to bowl first, but the weather had other plans, as constant rain interruptions saw just 13.2 overs of play before the day’s proceedings were called off.
Delayed Start and Interrupted Play
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Indian captain Rohit Sharma took the overcast opportunity to bowl first. However, the first session was only half-ticked before the rain caused an early dismissal. It resumed briefly once the sky cleared, but just as things were gaining momentum, the rain came back and played havoc once again.
After numerous attempts to continue the game, the weather finally proved too unpredictable and at the end of the day, it was announced that no further play would be possible.
Australian Batting Under Cloudy Conditions
In the match, which was played just for a limited period of play, Australia was seen getting 28 runs without a wicket loss. On his way to an undefeated knock of 19 were opener Usman Khawaja and his partner, Nathan McSweeney on 4.
The pacers were slowly getting the right rhythm and were piling pressure on the Australian opening batsmen. But nothing had been achieved on the very first day as the match went early into the hands of the rain.
Indian Changes in the Line-up
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India had the following two changes to be made to their playing eleven for this all-important third Test. Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s poor performer from the last Test in Adelaide, as well as young pacer Harshit Rana, was included. In his lieu, India brought allrounder Ravindra Jadeja and fast bowler Akash Deep into playing eleven.
Jadeja’s inclusion brings a balance to the Indian team. He provides both spin options and added depth to the lower-order batting. Akash Deep will strengthen the pace attack, which could be vital on the fast, bouncy pitch at the Gabba.
Series levelled at 1-1
This match is crucial for both teams with the series poised at 1-1 after two thrilling Tests. India had won the first Test at Nagpur, and Australia responded well by winning the second Test at Delhi emphatically. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 is to be played over five matches with both teams seeking to take the upper hand and take control of the series.
Clear sky expected tomorrow whole day
The hope now is for the rain to clear completely and have a full day of play tomorrow. Given that the conditions are also going to continue playing their role, the two teams will eagerly await getting this match back on track, in which every session counts to now determine who emerges victorious in such a high-stakes clash.
With the series tied at 1-1, fans can expect an exciting and unpredictable contest as both India and Australia battle for supremacy in this prestigious rivalry.
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