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| FILE |
The rain-interrupted fourth day of the ongoing Test match between India and Australia ended with India reaching 252 for nine in their first innings. Thanks to a gritty partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, India managed to avoid the follow-on. Alongside them, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja played pivotal roles, with both scoring half-centuries. After the day’s play, KL Rahul, India’s wicketkeeper-batsman, expressed his admiration for the lower-order batsmen and highlighted their importance in this match.
"Every Run Was Crucial," Says KL Rahul
KL Rahul emphasized the importance of every run in India’s battle to save the follow-on. He said:
"Today, every single run was crucial for us to surpass the follow-on mark. It’s great to see the lower-order batsmen contributing with the bat. The small partnership between Bumrah and Akash made a big difference. Not only did they add runs, but their resilience against bouncers in the last half-hour was remarkable."
Bumrah and Akash Shine in Testing Conditions
Akash Deep (27*) and Jasprit Bumrah (10*) stitched an unbeaten 39-run partnership off 54 balls for the 10th wicket. Facing world-class bowlers like Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon, the duo demonstrated grit and determination. Their effort ensured India surpassed the follow-on mark of 246, though the team is still trailing Australia by 193 runs.
Jadeja’s All-Round Brilliance Praised
KL Rahul didn’t hold back in praising Ravindra Jadeja’s performance. Jadeja scored a crucial 77 off 123 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. Rahul noted:
"Jadeja knows exactly what is expected of him. People often talk about his bowling, but he has been brilliant with the bat too. His technique is excellent, and I love batting alongside him. His game plan is simple and effective. Without him, the team wouldn't have been in this position."
Key Match Context
Australia scored a commanding 445 in their first innings, putting pressure on India. However, contributions from Rahul, Jadeja, and the lower order have kept India in the game, albeit still trailing significantly.
