India’s thrilling escape from a follow-on during the third Test at Gabba left the Australian dressing room stunned. Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon revealed that India’s exuberant celebrations, led by captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and star batter Virat Kohli, sparked discussions among the Australian players. The moment that triggered the celebration came when Akash Deep steered a Pat Cummins delivery over the gully, securing a crucial boundary to help India avoid the follow-on.
Lyon admitted that the Australian team was surprised by India’s reaction, especially given how dominant Australia had been throughout the game. Speaking to Fox Cricket, Lyon said, “We’ve driven this game, and their celebrations indicate the confidence they have. However, there’s a lot of cricket left in this match.”
India’s Lower Order Rescues the Day
When Ravindra Jadeja fell after a spectacular 77, India still needed 33 runs to avoid the follow-on. The situation seemed bleak, but the last-wicket partnership between Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah defied expectations. Against Australia’s formidable bowling attack of Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Lyon, the duo displayed immense grit. The pair’s stand became India’s highest last-wicket partnership in Australia in over three decades.
The tension culminated in an explosion of joy as Akash Deep hit the decisive boundary, followed by a massive six off Cummins. The Indian dressing room erupted, with Gambhir, Kohli, and Rohit celebrating jubilantly. The duo received a hero’s welcome upon returning to the pavilion after stumps were called.
Australia Struggles to Enforce Follow-On
Nathan Lyon remarked that India’s top-order batters may have been reluctant to face Australia’s bowlers in fading light if the follow-on had been enforced. The task became even more challenging for Australia after pacer Josh Hazlewood left the field with a calf strain, reducing their bowling options.
Lyon credited his teammates, especially Cummins and Starc, for their work ethic, emphasizing Australia’s pride in their fielding and commitment. Despite their efforts, India’s spirited resistance ensured that enforcing the follow-on was out of reach. Hazlewood’s injury later ruled him out of the remaining matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, further complicating Australia’s campaign.
This dramatic day of Test cricket exemplified the resilience of India’s lower order and the psychological edge gained through such intense moments.
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