With the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 set to begin at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on January 3, 2025, India are gearing up to make critical changes to their lineup. After a heavy loss in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, these adjustments are seen as essential to revitalizing the team’s strategy and increasing their chances of leveling the series.

Here are the two changes India make in their playing XI

1) Rohit Sharma to miss the SCG event

India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, is reportedly unavailable for the fifth Test. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will step in as leader in Rohit’s absence. In what may signal the end of his Test career, Rohit’s participation in future matches remains uncertain, with some sources suggesting that Rohit has already played his last Test (in Melbourne) unless the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) steps in to ask him to play once more.

Shubman Gill is expected to take Rohit’s place in the playing XI, slotting in at No. 3. The opening positions will be held by KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Despite being present in Sydney for the team’s final practice session, Rohit was not seen actively participating in net practice. Instead, he was observed conversing with coaches, including head coach Gautam Gambhir and Bumrah, rather tha??n engaging in?? the usual team drills.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Sydney Cricket Ground pays tribute to ic??onic Indian ??spinners ahead of the 5th and final Test

2) Akash Deep ruled out due to stiff back

In a second forced change, pacer Akash Deep has been ruled out of the upcoming Test due to a stiff back. Akash, who has played in the first two Tests in Brisbane and Melbourne, took five wickets in his limited appearan??ces. The 28-year-old right-arm fast bowler has already bowled an intensive 87.5 overs in the series, which could have contributed to his injury.

With Akash unavailable, the Indian team is now considering bringing in either Harshit Rana, known for his raw pace, or Prasidh Krishna, who offers a blend of experien?ce and precision. Both players provide different strengths, and the team management will have to assess the best fit for the crucial encounter.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Pat Cummins sheds light on Australia’s method to counter Jasprit Bumrah in the 5th Test at? SCG

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The fifth and final Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 between Australia and India will take place at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, starting on January 3. Australia are currently leading the five-match series by 2-1 over the visitors. Now ahead of the last game, Australian former pacer Daniel Fleming makes selection of India’s playing XI for the Sydney game.

Damien Fleming predicts India’s playing XI: No place for Rohit Sharma

In his column for The Roar, Fleming has been outspoken regarding India’s selection struggles in the ongoing series. One of the key points he has emphasized is the exclusion of Rohit Sharma from India’s playing XI.

Rohit’s prolonged poor form, having managed just 31 runs in five innings at an average of 6.2. His dismal form across his last 15 Test innings, with only one half-century, has raised serious doubts about his contribution to the team. Fleming believed that Rohit’s leadership has become reactive, and his poor form has contributed to India’s ongoing challenges. Fleming re??marked,

“The word on the street is that Rohit is going to be dropped! He hasn’t looked like getting runs whatsoever, whether batting in the middle order or opening. It is unbelievable to think pre-series, but Rohit coming back after the successful Test has unbalanced this team, and his captaincy became very reactive,” Fleming said.

New top-order combination for India

Fleming proposed a shift in India’s top-order to bring more stability and better performance in overseas conditions. He suggested that Yashasvi Jaiswal should continue as the opener, as he has been one of India’s standout performers in the se??ries.

Following Jaiswal, Fleming recommended moving KL Rahul back to his original role as an opener. Rahul has struggled in the middle order and was initially used as an opener before moving down the order. Fleming further suggested recalling Shubman Gill at No. 3. Gill��s technical soundness and adaptability have?? made him a reliable performer in recent Tests.

“I’d put Gill back in at No.3 and move KL Rahul back to opening. With Jaiswal, that is a top three to take to England,” the 54-year-old added.

Also READ: Australia or India? Michael Vaughan,?? Adam Gilchrist predict the winner of Sydney Test

Prasidh Krishna or Akash Deep?

Fleming also pointed out the absence of Akash Deep, who has been ruled out of the fifth Test due to a back injury. To strengthen India’s bowling attack, Fleming recommended calling in Prasidh Krishna, who impressed during India A’s unofficial series against Australia A, picking up 10 wickets across two? matches. F?leming stressed that India’s bowling attack needs fresh energy and Krishna’s pace could add depth to the attack. He noted,

“Akash Deep is out with a back issue, so Prasidh Krishna should be called in to replace him. With Bumrah back as captain, India has a chance to bounce back in the final Test,” the former right-arm pacer stated.

Spinners�?role for the Sydney Test

Fleming highlighted the key role of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar in India’s spin department. He emphasized that both?? spinners are crucial, especially in Australian cond?itions, where the pitches tend to aid spin as the game progresses.

“If it is a good batting track they have good spin options, so they’ve actually already made the changes that can help them, as in they’ve got Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar to provide quality spin,” the current cricketer commentator reckoned.

Jadeja’s all-around capabilities have been a major asset for India, offering control with his?? left-arm spin and contributing with the bat when needed. Similarly, Sundar’s off-spin adds depth and variety to India’s bowling attack.

Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership and bowling excellence

Fleming lauded Jasprit Bumrah’s efforts throughout the series, emphasizing that he has been India’s most consistent performer with the ball. Bumrah’s leadership in the opening Test, where India secured a dominant vi?ctory, has been commendable. Fleming highlighted that Bumrah’s ability to lead and deliver under pressure is invaluable, especially in the absence of a settled captaincy. Fleming concluded,

“Bumrah, back as captain like the first Test, will be a constant threat, but I’m backing the Aussies to win it to take the series 3-1 and get themselves into the World Test Championship decider,” Fleming concluded.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir’s coac?hing job under threat, was never BC?CI’s first choice

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has recently made headlines by addressing the swirling rumours of unrest within the squad. As India prepare for the fifth and final Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Gambhir’s remarks during a press conference have brought clarity to the team’s internal dynamics and highlighted his approach to leadership.

Gautam Gambhir emphasises on the importance of privacy in team discussions

In a firm stance against public speculation, Gambhir emphasized that discussions held within the dressing?? room s??hould remain confidential. He described debates and discussions as natural elements of any team environment but insisted that they should not be leaked to the media.

“Debates and discussions are natural in any team, but they should not become public knowledge. These are just reports, not the truth,” he stated during the pre-match press conference of SCG Test, dismissing reports of discord as mere “speculation” and “not the truth”. This assertion underscores his belief that unity and discretion are vital for maintaining team morale and focus.

Gambhir’s comments come in light of recent criticisms regarding the performance of senior players, particularly captain Rohit Sharma and veteran batter Virat Kohli. He also mentioned that his conversations with senior batte?rs have solely revolved around strategies for ?winning Test matches.

“Every individual knows what are areas to work on. We have only had one conversation with them (and that is) how to win Test matches,” Gambhir added.

The coach reiterated that individual performances are crucial for securing a place in the playing XI, stating, “Indian cricket will be in safe hands till honest people stay in the dressing room. Only thing that keeps you in the dressing room is performance,“. His emphasis on accountability reflects a shift towards a merit-based selection process, which he believes will strengthen the team’s overall performance.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Gautam Gambhir engages in a fiery outburst with players after India’s defeat in the 4th Test �?Reports

Rohit Sharma’s future: A question mark ahead of SCG Test

As speculation mounts about Rohit’s inclusion in the upcoming Test, Gambhir remained non-committal. When asked about Rohit’s position, he explained that decisions regarding the playing XI would be made after assessing pitch conditions closer to match day.

“We will take the Playing XI call after looking at the pitch tomorrow,” he confirmed. This cautious approach indicates Gambhir’s strategic mindset, prioritizing adaptability based on real-time conditions.

Rohit’s form has been under scrutiny, with many questioning his leadership capabilities amid declining personal performance. Gambhir’s handling of this situation is critical, as it not only affects Rohit’s standing but also impacts team dynamics leading into a decisive match against Australia. The pressure is palpable; a strong performance is essential for both Rohit and the team to regain momentum in the series, which currently sees India trailing 2-1.

A call for honesty and performance-driven culture

Gambhir’s leadership philosophy centers around honesty and transparency within the team framework. He acknowledged having had “honest conversations” with players about their roles and responsibilities but clarified that these discussions are strictly focused on strategies for winning matches rather than personal grievances. This approach aims to foster a culture where players feel supported yet accountable for their contributions.

Moreover, Gambhir confirmed that pacer Akash Deep would miss the SCG Test due to a stiff back but did not specify a replacement, further indicating that he is focused on immediate pe??rformance rather than long-term planning at this juncture.

Also READ: 7 embarrassing f?eats India achieved in 2024 under Gautam Gambhir as head coach

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

On the second day of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a moment of high drama unfolded when Australia’s star batter Steve Smith was dismissed in an unexpected manner by Indian pacer Akash Deep. The incident occurred during the 115th over of Australia’s first innings, adding a twist to an otherwise dominant display by the hosts.

Steve Smith falls to a rare mis-step

Deep, India’s right-arm fast bowler delivered a pivotal blow by dismissing Smith for 140 runs. Attempting an aggressive stroke, Smith charged down the pitch to counter the bowler but ended up inside-edging the ball onto his back leg. The ball then rolled onto the stumps, dislodging a single bail. Despite his valiant effort to dominate the Indian attack, Smith’s dismissal left him visibly disappointed, though he acknowledged the MCG crowd’s standing ovation as he walked back to the pavilion. Smith’s remarkable innings, which featured 13 fours and three sixes, elevated the team to a commanding position.

Here is the video:

What happened there?! 😅

A wonderful innings by #SteveSmith ends in the most bizarre fashion! #AUSvINDOnStar 👉 4th Test, Day 2 | LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/s9fbEmh33v

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 27, 2024

This was Smith’s 34th Test century, an impressive milestone in his illustrious career. It marked his 11th ??century against India, ??reinforcing his reputation as one of the most formidable players in the game. With this innings, Smith now stands seventh on the all-time list for the most Test centuries.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Steve Smith breaks Sachin Tendulkar and Joe Roo?t�?�s records en route to his 34nd Test century

Australia’s onslaught in the first innings

Australia’s first innings was a masterclass in batting dominance, as they amassed a colossal 474 runs. While Smith’s stellar knock was the centrepiece of their effort, the foundation was laid by the top order. Openers Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja impressed with well-crafted half-centuries, followed by a similarly steady contribution from Marnus Labuschagne.

For India, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah spearheaded the attack with a four-wicket haul, demonstrating his class and precision. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja complemented Bumrah’s efforts with three crucial wickets.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s why Team India players are wearing black arm bands on Day 2 of the 4th Te??st against Au?stralia

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In a light-hearted moment during the ongoing Test series between Australia and India, Australian batting star Steve Smith was struck in a rather sensitive area by a delivery from Indian pacer Akash Deep. The incident took place on Day 1 of the fourth Test at the jam-packed Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), leading to a comical reaction from Smith that has since gone viral on ??social media.

Steve Smith takes a blow on private parts

During his stay in the middle, while facing Akash Deep, Smit?h misjudged a delivery that rose unexpectedly, resulting in a painful blow to his private parts. The Australian crowd gasped as the incident unfolded, but Smith quickly recovered, showcasing his characteristic sense of humour. He was seen smiling and shaking his head after the incident, later joking with par??tner about the mishap.

He even called the delivery bowled by Akash Deep as “a nut ball.”

Here’s the video:

Special comments from Steve Smith after being hit in a certain area 🫣#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/RcNRVKHrFH

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024

Also WATCH: Ricky Ponting’s double standards criticizing Virat Kohli while ignoring his own past 

Steve Smith joins Don Bradman in an elite list

Smith achi??eved a remarkable milestone on Thursday during the Boxing Day Test against India at MCG, scoring his 42nd Test half-century. With this achievement, Smith joined an elite group of cricketing icons, including Don Bradman, Greg Cha??ppell and Ricky Ponting, as players with 10 or more fifty-plus scores in Tests at the iconic venue.

This latest performance marked Smith’s 10th fifty-plus score at the MCG in just 12 Test appearances. Chappell leads the chart with 13 such scores in 17 Tests, followed by Bradman with 12 in 11 Tests and Ponting with 11 in 15 Tests.

Smith remained unbeaten on 68 at the end of Day 1, a knock that featured five fours and one six. He reached his half-century off 71 balls during the final session, helping Australia end the day on a solid note at 311/6 in 86 overs.

Also READ: AUS vs IND – Here’s the penalty Virat Kohli received from ICC for his on-field clash with Sam Konstas

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

A thunderous roar erupted from the dressing room as Virat Kohli and coach Gautam Gambhir exchanged high-fives after India narrowly avoided the follow-on against Australia, thanks to a resilient partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep in the Gabb??a Test. This moment reflected not just relief but also the fighting spirit that has characterized Indian cricket in recent years.

The defiant partnership of Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep

On Day 4 of the third Test at the Gabba, India found themselves in a precarious position, trailing by 193 runs with only one wicket remaining. The pressure was palpable as Bumrah and Akash took to the crease, tasked with avoiding the follow-on mark of 246. The two tail-enders showcased remarkable resilience, frustrating the Australia pacers with an unbeaten 39-run?? partnership for the 10th wicket. Their gritty stand helped India surpass this criti?cal threshold, ending the day at 252/9 before bad light halted play.

Bumrah and Akash’s performance was not merely about survival. They managed to frustrate Australia’s bowlers, who had previously dismantled India’s top order with relative ease. Akash’s explosive six off Pat Cummins, using a bat gifted by Kohli, was a highlight that left both fans and teammates in awe. His celebrati??on after hitting the six encapsulated the joy and relief of the moment, signalling that even the lower order could contribute significantly.

Also READ: ?Fans go wild as Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep help India avoid follow-on against Australia in Gabba Test

Akash saves the day for India shocking Pat Cummins with two smacks  

As soon as India reached the 245-run mark, Akash executed a cut shot off Cummins that sailed over gully for a boundary, successfully steering India clear of the follow-on. The dressing room erupted with joy, knowing they had accomplished a challenging feat. Following the jubilant celebrations, Akash captured the internet’s attention after launching a massive six off Cummins that sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Akash, who is batting on 27 off 31 balls, had already struck two fours and one six. On the fourth ball of the 75th over, he unleashed a powerful shot off Cummins that soared down the ground. The camera then panned to the dressing room, where Kohli looked astonished by Akash’s batting skills.

Here’s the video:

Akash Deep makes sure India avoid the follow-on and then smashes Pat Cummins into the second level!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HIu86M7BNW

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024

Contributions from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to stabilize Indian innings

Earlier in the innings, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja laid a strong foundation for India with impressive half-centuries. Their partnership added 67 runs for the sixth wicket, providing crucial stability after a disastrous start that saw India reeling at 51/4. Rahul’s top score of 84 runs was instrumental in keeping India afloat during turbulent times. Jadeja’s contributions alongside Nitish Reddy further solidified India’s position as they fought to avoid a follow-on and keep their hopes alive in the match.

Despite these efforts, Australia’s bowling attack remained relentless. Cummins emerged as the most successful bowler, claiming four wickets for 80 runs, while Mitchell Starc added three more to his tally. The absence of Josh Hazlewood due to injury was felt, but Australia’s depth in bowling ensured they maintained pressure throughout.

The match has been marred by weather interruptions, with persistent rain causing multiple delays and limiting play significantly. On Day 3 alone, only 33 overs were bowled due to rain disruptions. Forecasts suggest more wet weathe?r, making a draw increasi?ngly likely. With India trailing by 193 runs at stumps on Day 4, their focus will shift towards preserving their wickets and salvaging a result from this challenging encounter.

Also WATCH: Pat Cu??mmins�?brilliant delivery sends Nitish Reddy packing on Day 4 of the AUS vs IND 3rd Test

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In a remarkable display of courage and unexpected skill, Jasprit Bumrah pulled off an extraordinary shot that left Pat Cummins and the Australian team stunned. On Day 4 of the gripping Test match, Bumrah, renowned for his bowling exploits rather than his batting, nonchalantly dispatched Cummins for maximum. The sheer audacity of the stroke caught everyone off guard, including the Australian captain, who could do little but smile wryly as? he walked back to his bowling mark, acknowledging the b?rilliance and unpredictability of the moment.

The shot from Jasprit Bumrah that left Pat Cummins smiling

The moment unfolded on the 67.1st over, when Cummins, looking to wrap up India’s innings, unleashed a sharp, short-pitched delivery directed at Bumrah’s shoulder height. Unfazed by the pace and bounce, Bumrah instinctively got inside the line of the ball and executed a clean hook shot, sending the red cherry soaring into the fine-leg stands. The commentators erupted in surprise, the crowd roared, and Cummins’ reaction – a wide smile – perfectly captured the mood. It was a moment that symbolized the beauty and unpredictability of Test cricket.

Bumrah’s six marked the 10th maximum of his Test career, a remarkable feat for a lower-order batter known more for blocking and frustrating bowlers rather than playing such flamboyant shots. The boundary not only added vital runs to India’s total but also lifted the morale of the team, as the visitors found themselves in dire need of resilience from their tailenders.

Here’s the video:

Jasprit Bumrah just smashes Pat Cummins for six! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/vOwqRwBaZD

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Fans mercilessly tro?ll Rohit Sharma for another failure with the bat in the Brisbane Test

Bumrah and Akash Deep’s gritty partnership: Lifting the follow-on sword

Bumrah’s heroics were followed by another unexpected but equally enthralling moment when Akash Deep, playing in his debut Test, showcased his intent by launching a monstrous six off Cummins. With India teetering on the brink of a follow-on, it was this spirited 10th-wicket stand between Bumrah and Deep that provided a much-needed breather.

The Indian lower order, often criticized for its inability to contribute, displayed uncharacteristic aggression? and determination under pressure. Bumrah’s unbeaten knock of 10 runs combined with Deep’s powerful stroke not only helped India avoid the ignominy of a follow-on but a??lso added a touch of fightback to an otherwise challenging day.

The audacious efforts from India’s No. 10 and No. 11 were a timely reminder of the unique drama and unpredictability that Test cricket offers. Cummins, despite being visibly frustrated, could only admire the resilience of the Indian tail, which stood tall against one of the most potent bowling attacks in the world. At 252/9, India still trails Australia by 193 runs, a deficit that places the visitors in a perilous situation. However, the gritty partnership between Bumrah and Akash Deep has ensured that India h??eads into Day 5 with a sliver of hope.

Also WATCH: Pat Cumm?ins�?brilliant delivery sends Nitish Reddy packing on Day 4 of the AUS vs IND 3rd Test

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

On Day 4 of the third Test between Australia and India at the Gabba in Brisbane, the Australian captain Pat Cummins produced an exceptional delivery to dismiss India all-rounder Nitish Reddy. This wicket came in the 60th over of India’s first innings, when the team was still battling to make progress against a strong Australian bowling attack.

Pat Cummins strikes with an incredible delivery 

The delivery that claimed Reddy’s wicket was a gem. With India in a precarious position, Cummins delivered a good-length ball that held its line just outside off stump. Reddy, slightly loose in his approach, attempted to defend but played away from his body. The ball found the inside edge of his bat and clipped the leg stump on its way to the keeper. Reddy, who had been looking solid up until that point, was visibly distraught as he walked back to the pavilion, dismissed for 16 runs off 61 balls. His knock included one boundary.

Here is the video:

Pat Cummins breaks the partnership with a corker!#AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @nbn_australia pic.twitter.com/v711VoaqJW

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024

Cummins’ performance in the first innings of the Brisbane Test has been nothing short of outstanding. The Australian captain had already made a significant impact with the ball, taking 4 wickets and conceding 80 runs at an economy rate of 3.80. His skilful bowling has been a key factor in Australia’s dominance throughout the match.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith takes a sharp catch of KL Rahul t??o redeem his earlier mistake on Day 4 of the third Test | AUS vs IN??D

Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep’s vital partnership for the 10th wicket

At the end of Day 4, India found themselves in a tough spot, with their score standing at 252 for the loss of 9 wickets in their first innings. They still trail by 193 runs, with Australia having posted a formidable total of 445 in their fir?st innings.

Despite the setbacks, there was a silver lining for India. Jasprit Bumrah (10*) and Akash Deep (27*) showed great resilience at the crease, successfully building a crucial partnership for the 10th wicket. Together, they managed to stitch an unbeaten 39-run partnership, helping India avoid the follow-on and ensuring the game is still alive. As the day drew to a close, play was halted due to bad lighting, leaving India’s tailenders with some unfinished business. The interruption, however, provided a brief respite for the Indian team, who will look to regroup and continue their fight on Day 5.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah pokes fun at a journalist after being quizzed on his batting?? record

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

India faced a tough battle on Day 4 of the Brisbane Test against Australia, trailing by 193 runs after their first innings. With 9 wickets down, India needed significant contributions from their lower order to avoid the follow-on. Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep rose to the occasion, staging a crucial partnership t??o ensure India’s survival in the Tes??t match.

Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep counterattack with resilience

Bumrah and Akash Deep displayed remarkable composure and determination at the crease. Bumrah, who has been a key figure in India’s bowling attack, showcased his versatility by playing a vital knock of 10 runs off 27 deliveries, adding crucial runs while exhibiting patience. Meanwhile, Akash Deep contributed a vital 27 off 31 balls, showcasing a mix of caution and aggression. Their stand of 37 runs for the final wicket provided the much-needed boost to India’s total.

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins�?respective contributions for Australia

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins led the Australian bowling attack, relentlessly probing the Indian tail-enders. Starc struck three crucial wickets, including that of Siraj, while Cummins dismissed four key Indian batters, finishing with figures of 4/80. However, despite their efforts, Australia could not finish off the Indian innings, allowing Bumrah and ?Akash Deep to delay the follow-on.

India’s batting struggles persist but late resilience averts follow-on

The Indian top and middle order faced persistent challenges throughout the innings, with only KL Rahul managing to hold fort for a substantial period with 84 runs. Ravindra Jadeja also contributed well with the bat and scored 77 crucial runs. The remaining batters, including Kohli, Jaiswal, and Pant, failed to build partnerships, leaving India in a precari??ous position. However, Bumrah’s and Deep’s lower-order heroics prevented Australia from enforcing the follow-on, ensuring India’s second innings chance to mount a comeback.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith takes a sharp catch of? KL Rahul to redeem his earlier mistake on Day 4 of the t?hird Test

Australia’s bowling attack falls short of finishing job

Despite their dominance, Australia’s bowlers struggled to close out the Indian innings. Starc and Cummins delivered aggressive spells, but lapses in consistency allowed Bumrah and Deep to extend the game. Nathan Lyon also chipped in with a wicket, but the?? lack of control and pressure from the other bowlers meant India had enough time to rebuild for the second innings.

India began the day trailing by 193 runs with 9 wickets down. Rahul (84) showed resistance, but once he fell, hopes of avoiding the follow-on seemed grim. However, Bumrah (10 not out) and Akash Deep (27) stitched a vital partnership, frustrating the Australian bowlers. Starc and Cummins picked up crucial lower-order wickets, but their efforts fell short. India’s innings ended at 252, reducing the follow-on deficit. Australia’s bowling attack, led by Starc and Cummins, app

Here’s how fans reacted:

That reaction in the Indian dressing room after the follow-on was avoided tells you why Test cricket will continue to thrive. Test cricket has more drama than any other sport. #AUSvIND

— Sumit (@SumitPurohit) December 17, 2024

Akashdeep is the 3rd top scorer for India now, the main batters shud be shameful to see this, had they shown a bit more patience we cud have been in a much stronger position today. Anyways, it was a great fightback by lower order supported with a great knock by KL🏏👏🏾🔥 #AUSvIND

— Sanskar Gemawat (@thatSanskariGuy) December 17, 2024

Akashdeep & Bumrah showing how to bat, avoid follow on, if require bash Aus bowlers even for sixes. Top order shld ta??ke tution from them everyday to avoid getting insulted on field & on?? TV.

Bonus part: They also b?owls & take? wickets also.👏🏻🥳

#AUSvIND

— Wicked Sunny (@Smart_Ladkaa) December 17, 2024

Death, Taxes and Australia's inability to finish off a tail. #AUSvIND #BorderGavaskarTrophy

— Alchemist🇦🇺🇮🇹🇳🇱 (@TwiddyWadda) December 17, 2024

Maybe ICT should try batting in reverse order if we get to bat again#INDvsAUS #AUSvIND

— Anisht Dev (@cricketcoast) December 17, 2024

India have gone from 'believe on Jassi bhai' with the ball to 'believe on Jassi bhai' with the bat #AUSvIND

— Soorya Sesha (@sooryasesha7) December 17, 2024

KL & Jadeja the only contributors here for India in this first innings . But weather has made the draw inevitable #AUSvIND

— John Wright (@johnwright15) December 17, 2024

It’s funny but Bumrah and Akash Deep may not have the technique but have more mental determination than Virat or Rohit while batting.#BGT2024 #AUSvIND

— Advitiya Awasthi (@aawasthilaw) December 17, 2024

Celebrating their success is good, but Batters need to like reflect and see how these two survived and grinded out those runs. Learn from them. #AUSvIND 🏏

— Kartik O 🏏⚽�?(@KOCricket528) December 17, 2024

They all should bow down to Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep. pic.twitter.com/3Ha9kOYVOb

— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) December 17, 2024

Australia getting saved by bad light and rain. We won't forget Team India's Gabba domination.

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) December 17, 2024

Follow-on or no Follow-on, if this fight from Bumrah and Akash Deep with the bat doesn't inspire those top order dinosaurs to fight it out in the 2nd innings then nothing will.

— Bishontherockz (@BishOnTheRockx) December 17, 2024

It will be 1-1 going to Melbourne.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 17, 2024

Day 4, Stumps

India avoid the follow on an??d trail by 193 runs 🏏

Akash deep: 27*
Jasprit Bumrah: 10*#Cricket #AUSvIND #Akashdeep #GabbaTest pic.twitter.com/QHritfUp6s

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 17, 2024

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah pokes fun at a journalist after being qui??zzed on his batting record

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.