Mon Dec 16 16:38:29 UTC 2024: ## Australia Poised for Follow-On as India Stumbles in Gabba Test
Brisbane, Australia – Australia is on the verge of enforcing a follow-on against India in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after reducing the visitors to a precarious 51/4 at the end of day three at the Gabba. Australia declared their first innings at 445, setting up a commanding position with only two days of play remaining.
The possibility of a follow-on, a rare occurrence in recent years for India, is high on the minds of the Australian team. Pace bowler Mitchell Starc confirmed this possibility, stating, “At 4 for 50, we hold a few more cards than they do.” He attributed this advantage partly to the rain-affected match, which limited bowling opportunities earlier in the test.
Day three saw significant rain interruptions, with only 33.1 overs bowled. Despite the interruptions, Starc himself contributed significantly, claiming two early wickets, including those of Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. He explained his tactical approach, focusing on fuller-length deliveries to exploit the Gabba pitch. Alex Carey (70) and Starc (18) were the top scorers for Australia in their first innings.
Starc expressed frustration with the constant rain breaks but remained optimistic about the remaining days, hoping for a full day’s play to capitalize on India’s fragile position. The Australian bowlers will be aiming to restrict India to a very low score before considering the follow-on option, a move that would significantly boost their chances of victory in the rain-curtailed match. The series is currently 2-0 in favour of Australia.
First Piper 