Cricket Highlights, December 14-18: India tour of Australia (3rd Test) – Australia vs India

AUS vs IND (3rd Test) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the gripping third Test of the India tour of Australia, held at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18, 2024. The match was a closely contested battle that ended in a draw, highlighting the resilience and determination of both teams.

AUS set the tone with a formidable first-innings total of 445, followed by a strategic declaration at 89/7 in their second innings, setting IND a challenging target of 275. Despite valiant efforts from India’s batters, they fell just 15 runs short, finishing at 260 in their first innings and holding on at 8/0 in their second. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit of Test cricket, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the series’ next chapter.

The third Test of the India tour of Australia in Brisbane delivered a gripping contest, ultimately resulting in a draw that showcased the balance of both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. Australia batted first on a challenging Gabba pitch and posted a commanding total of 445 in their first innings. The charge was led by Steven Smith, who played a patient and masterful knock of 101 off 190 balls, anchoring the innings. 

However, the highlight came from Travis Head, whose aggressive 152 off 160 balls, featuring 18 boundaries, provided the momentum Australia needed. Alex Carey also chipped in with a brisk 70, helping Australia cross the 400-run mark. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers for India, claiming 6 for 76 with his trademark precision and variations.

India’s reply got off to a rocky start, with Australia’s razor-sharp bowling dismantling their top order in no time. KL Rahul played a valiant innings of 84, stabilizing the innings along with Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed a gritty 77. However, frequent dismissals from the other end left India struggling. Pat Cummins’ fiery spell (4 for 81) and Mitchell Starc’s key strikes (3 for 83) ensured India was bowled out for 260, conceding a significant lead of 185 runs.

In their second innings, Australia aimed to set a challenging target but stumbled under India’s relentless bowling. Jasprit Bumrah continued his stellar form, taking 3 for 18, while Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep chipped in with two wickets each. Australia declared at 89/7 after just 18 overs, setting India a target of 275 runs. The innings highlighted Pat Cummins’ quickfire 22 off 10 balls, the only resistance against India’s bowlers.

India’s second innings began cautiously in the final session, with openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul surviving a brief but testing spell from Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. IND ended the day at 8/0, with the match concluding in a draw as the allotted time expired.

While AUS capitalized on their batting depth in the first innings, India showed immense character in bouncing back with the ball. The result left the series intriguingly poised, promising an exciting continuation in the subsequent matches.

Australia vs India Scoreboard

Australia– 445 & 89/7d

India– 260 & 8/0

Result – Match drawn

Player of the Match – Travis Head

AUS vs IND Playing XI

Australia

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey(WK), Pat Cummins(C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

India

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(WK), Rohit Sharma(C), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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