Indian pacer Akash Deep struck early, removing Australia’s opener Nathan McSweeney in his first over to secure India’s third wicket on Day 5 of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy’s third Test (Wednesday, December 18, 2024) at The Gabba, Brisbane.
The crucial wicket fell on the third ball of the eighth over during Australia’s second innings. Akash Deep delivered a well-directed length ball outside the off-stump, offering just enough width to lure Nathan McSweeney into attempting a cut shot.
However, McSweeney only managed to get a faint edge to the ball, which was cleanly taken by the wicketkeeper, ensuring a vital breakthrough for India. You can watch the video here:
One brings two, two brings three – Team India are on a spree! 🤩#AkashDeep joins the party, McSweeney departs! 👏#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 3rd Test, Day 5 LIVE NOW! #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/RmccJFJ5tL
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 18, 2024
The right-handed batter was able to score only 4 runs from 25 deliveries before being dismissed, leaving Australia in a difficult position at 16/3 after 7.3 overs.
Australia lose five wickets within 11 overs in their second innings
Australia posted 445 in their first innings, powered by centuries from Steven Smith (101) and Travis Head (152). India struggled in reply, with only KL Rahul (84) and Ravindra Jadeja (77) making notable contributions. At 213-9, India still needed 33 runs to avoid the follow-on, with one wicket in hand.
Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah played crucial roles in prolonging India’s innings, guiding the team to a total of 252/9 by the conclusion of Day 4, after 74.5 overs. On the morning of Day 5, Akash Deep was dismissed for 31, marking the final wicket to fall as India were bowled out for 260.
Australia’s second innings began poorly. Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1), while Akash Deep removed Nathan McSweeney (4) and Mitchell Marsh (2). Mohammed Siraj then sent Steven Smith (4) back, leaving Australia at 33-5 in 11 overs.
At the latest update, Australia were 44-5 after 13 overs, with Travis Head (13) and Alex Carey (7) at the crease.
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