BRISBANE: A rain-affected day at the Gabba provided a glimmer of hope for India as Australia’s relentless bowlers left the visitors struggling at 51-4 at stumps on Day three of the third Test.
India’s top order was rattled early, losing four key wickets in the first session after dismissing Australia for 445 earlier in the day.
However, Brisbane’s persistent downpours came to India’s rescue, as the weather caused several delays and prevented Australia from capitalizing on their dominance.
KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 33, with India’s captain Rohit Sharma at the other end, yet to open his account.
The day was marred by frequent interruptions, with players leaving the field seven times due to the heavy rain.
The situation was further compounded by bad light that curtailed play after only 2.5 overs following the resumption of play after tea.
Australia’s bowlers, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, continued their fine form from the previous day, reducing India to a precarious position.
The visitors started the day with the aim of avoiding the follow-on, but their hopes were quickly dashed as they lost three early wickets in the first session.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli were all dismissed cheaply, with Hazlewood and Starc providing Australia with crucial breakthroughs.
The rain came just as India appeared to be sinking further into trouble.
The players were forced off the field for a lengthy period, and the early lunch meant no play was possible in the lead-up to the break.
Upon returning, India lost Pant to an edge off Pat Cummins, and their chances of saving the Test were looking slim.
Earlier in the day, Australia resumed on 405-7 and quickly reached 445 before India wrapped up the Australian innings. Wicket-keeper Alex Carey was the last to go, departing after an enterprising 70.
While India's top order endured a difficult day under pressure, the rain gave them a glimmer of hope, offering a chance to regroup and possibly salvage a draw.
With more rain forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, India’s prospects of holding out for a draw look more promising, as they now aim to head to Melbourne with the series level at 1-1.
