Indian batters put on a horror show on a rain marred day of 3rd Test after Aussies post 445

 

Unpredictable weather and Australia’s unyielding dominance were the hallmarks of a rain-marred third day at the Gabba, where the third Test appears to be tilting decisively in the hosts' favor. At stumps, India was struggling at 51 for four in response to Australia’s imposing first-innings total of 445, trailing by 394 runs. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tied at 1-1, Australia has seized the upper hand, though the erratic weather forecast over the next two days may still play a role.

The day began with intermittent rain, delaying the start and forcing the Indian batters into a tense situation under cloudy skies. Yashasvi Jaiswal, after an early streaky boundary through the slips, misjudged a Mitchell Starc delivery and lobbed a catch to short mid-wicket. Shubman Gill followed soon after, lured into a loose drive outside the off-stump, allowing Mitchell Marsh to take a stunning catch in the cordon.

Kohli looked far from his best, awkwardly fending at a Starc bouncer before chasing a wide delivery from Josh Hazlewood, gifting Alex Carey a straightforward catch. India was in deep trouble at 22 for three.

Rishabh Pant walked in under darkening skies, and just as the players settled, rain returned, forcing an early lunch. When play resumed, Pant tried to curb his natural aggression but fell edging a Pat Cummins delivery. At 44 for four, India’s hopes rested on K.L. Rahul, who remained steadfast alongside skipper Rohit Sharma despite multiple rain interruptions.

Earlier in the day, Australia dispelled any speculation of an overnight declaration and resumed at their overnight score of 405 for seven. Their intent was clear—extend their lead and pile psychological pressure on the visitors. Mitchell Starc made his presence felt with the bat, smashing Ravindra Jadeja for a six and Jasprit Bumrah for a boundary. However, Bumrah had the last laugh, dismissing Starc with an edge.

Carey continued his entertaining knock, lofting a six off Akash Deep, but India’s bowlers eventually wrapped up the innings. Akash, who toiled tirelessly without much reward, finally dismissed Carey for a well-made 70. Australia added 40 runs in the morning while losing their last three wickets.

India now faces an uphill battle against both the scoreboard and the conditions. With their top order in disarray and Australia’s bowlers in lethal form, the task ahead seems almost insurmountable.