India vs Australia 3rd Test Day 3 Latest Update: India’s batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure from Australia’s pace attack, leaving the team struggling at 48/4 after the match was stopped by rain on Day 2 in the first innings. The hosts trail by a massive 397 runs after Australia posted a formidable total of 445 in their first innings, powered by a magnificent century from Steven Smith and a blistering 152-run knock by Travis Head.
Mitchell Starc led the charge for Australia, dismissing both openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, early. Jaiswal fell for 4 after he attempted a flick but mistimed it, chipping a simple catch to Marsh at forward square leg off just the second ball he faced, while Gill managed only a single before departing. Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins capitalized on the shaky Indian batting, removing Virat Kohli (3) and Rishabh Pant (9), respectively. KL Rahul (30*) remains the lone warrior, trying to steady the innings alongside skipper Rohit Sharma (0*), who is yet to face a proper challenge.
Earlier, Australia’s innings revolved around two key partnerships: a 241-run stand between Steven Smith and Travis Head and a late flourish by Alex Carey (70) that pushed their total to 445. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout bowler for India, claiming six wickets for 76 runs. However, the rest of the attack struggled to contain the Australian batters, with Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep taking two and one wicket respectively.
With the top order back in the pavilion and a fragile lower-middle order yet to come, India’s chances of recovery hinge on a stellar partnership from Rahul and Rohit. The team will also rely heavily on their bowlers in the second innings to keep the match alive.
Can India turn things around and mount a comeback, or will Australia tighten their grip on the game? The third day will be pivotal as India fights to stay in contention.