The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 3rd Test between India and Australia at the Gabba, Brisbane, witnessed yet another day of weather-related interruptions on December 18, 2024. The 5th day of the match, which was already delayed earlier due to rain on Day 4, continued to face the wrath of unpredictable weather conditions, leaving fans and players on edge.
Weather Delays Disrupt Play on Day 5
As the match resumed on Day 5, rain delays once again took center stage, restricting the action to just 24 balls before the weather intervened. The intermittent showers on Day 4 had already caused disruptions, halting play twice during crucial moments. By the time play was halted, India had posted 252/9, trailing Australia by 193 runs. However, the rain continued to affect the match, leaving the possibility of further delays high.
Earlier forecasts from Accuweather indicated cloudy and very humid conditions, with the added threat of thunderstorms, making it uncertain whether the match could proceed uninterrupted. The stormy weather cast doubt on the outcome of the match, with some speculating that the third Test might end in a draw, as rain loomed large over the final day.
India’s Resilience Amid Rain Breaks
Despite the setbacks due to weather, India’s players showed tremendous resilience on Day 4, with KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja leading the charge. Rahul, with a gritty 84 runs off 139 balls, and Jadeja, who contributed a solid 77 runs off 123 balls, helped India avoid the follow-on and put up a competitive score. Their fighting fifties were crucial in stabilizing India’s innings after early setbacks.
Jasprit Bumrah (10*) and Akash Deep (27*) remained unbeaten, adding vital runs to the total before rain once again halted play. The duo showed great determination and managed to frustrate the Australian bowlers during their brief partnership, helping India recover from a potentially disastrous situation. With Australia missing their star bowler Josh Hazlewood, ruled out due to a calf injury, India took advantage of the Aussie attack.
Brisbane Weather: What’s Next for the Game?
According to weather reports from Accuweather, Brisbane is expected to experience fluctuating temperatures, dropping in the afternoon, with thunderstorms adding to the uncertainty of play. The forecast has predicted a 90% chance of rain, increasing the likelihood of another delay or even the match being called off due to unplayable conditions.
The conditions have certainly added drama to this third Test, making it more unpredictable. As we await further developments, both teams are likely to keep a close eye on the weather as they prepare for the resumption of play.
Key Moments from India vs Australia BGT 3rd Test Day 4
Despite weather disruptions, the action on Day 4 was not short on excitement. India faced a tough challenge after losing quick wickets, but Rahul and Jadeja stood firm in the face of adversity. Their contributions were crucial for India, allowing them to extend their innings and delay Australia’s victory. Jadeja’s aggressive batting, including 7 boundaries and 1 six, coupled with Rahul’s well-constructed innings, kept the Australian bowlers at bay.
While rain clouds hovered over the Gabba, both teams are determined to make the most of the opportunities presented by the conditions. The absence of Hazlewood, a key player in the Australian squad, also added an element of vulnerability to their bowling attack, which India sought to capitalize on.
What’s at Stake for India and Australia?
This Test match is crucial for both India and Australia in the context of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With India trailing by 193 runs, they will need a strong comeback to avoid defeat, while Australia, bolstered by a solid performance on Day 4, will be keen to wrap up the match and extend their advantage in the series. However, with rain continuing to be a major factor, the fate of the game hangs in the balance.
As both teams brace for unpredictable weather, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the next phase of this thrilling Test match, hoping for clear skies and uninterrupted play.
Conclusion: Will Rain End the Third Test in a Draw?
With the weather playing such a pivotal role in the ongoing Test, the big question remains: Will rain have the final say in the outcome of this match? While the forecast predicts more rain, both teams are determined to fight it out. India will look to their lower-order batsmen to provide resistance, while Australia will aim to finish the match quickly, capitalizing on any available playtime. Stay tuned as we await further updates on this weather-affected Test match!
