India’s Batting Collapse Looms Over Photo Finish
India’s batting collapsed against Australia, setting up a thrilling finish in the fourth and final Test in Brisbane.
India was bowled out for just 162 runs in their second innings, giving Australia a target of 328 to win. The tourists had looked in control of the match after posting a first-innings total of 443, but their batting disintegrated on the third day. Australia's bowlers took full advantage of India's vulnerability, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon picking up four wickets each. India's hopes now rest on their bowlers to produce a miraculous performance and prevent Australia from claiming a series victory. The match is finely poised, and a photo finish is on the cards.
Here is a summary of the key moments from day three:
- India resumed play on 331/8, with Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar at the crease.
- Cummins struck early, dismissing Pant for 35 runs.
- Hanuma Vihari was then trapped in front by Lyon for just 12.
- Sundar was the next man to fall, lbw to Lyon for 22.
- Mohammed Shami was then bowled by Cummins for 4 runs.
India's innings lasted just 58.3 overs, and they failed to build on their strong start. Australia's bowlers were relentless, and they never allowed the Indian batsmen to settle. The tourists now face an uphill battle to save the match. They will need to take early wickets and restrict Australia's run-scoring if they are to have any chance of victory.
The match is delicately poised, and either side could still win.
Australia will be confident of chasing down the target, but India's bowlers have shown that they are capable of taking wickets. A fascinating fourth day is in prospect, with a photo finish on the cards.
