Gabba, Brisbane – The fourth day of the thrilling Gabba Test match between India and Australia saw an unexpected yet heroic display from Team India’s lower-order batsmen, Jasprit Bumrah and Akashdeep. With India staring down the barrel at 213/9, the pair stitched a crucial 47-run partnership that not only steered the team clear of a follow-on but also etched their names into history books.
Coming in at numbers 10 and 11 respectively, Bumrah and Akashdeep exhibited the kind of composure typically seen in top-order batters. Their partnership held the fort against a fiery Australian bowling attack and ensured that Team India crossed the 250-run mark. India eventually finished their innings at 260 early on the fifth day.
A Record-Breaking Feat
This partnership became historic as, for the first time in 77 years, Indian batsmen at No. 10 and No. 11 hit sixes in the same Test innings against Australia. Bumrah smashed a towering six during his 10-run cameo, while Akashdeep played an outstanding innings, scoring 31 runs, which included two fours and a six.
The Gabba witnessed a moment of resilience and determination as Bumrah and Akashdeep tackled the likes of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc with a mix of defensive blocks and attacking strokes. Their innings ended when Akashdeep was stumped off Travis Head’s bowling, bringing a valiant effort to a close.
India’s Struggles Continue
Earlier in the match, Australia posted a formidable 445 in their first innings, putting immense pressure on India. The top order faltered dramatically, with the team reeling at 50/4. Middle-order contributions from Ravindra Jadeja (77) and KL Rahul (84) brought India back into the game before another collapse ensued.
Thanks to Bumrah and Akashdeep’s heroics, India narrowly avoided the follow-on, giving the bowlers some breathing room to attack Australia in their second innings.
Australia’s Response
By the end of the fifth day, Australia had extended their lead to 230 runs, finishing their second innings at 45/5. With two days of play left, the Test promises a nail-biting finish as India aims to claw their way back into the match.
