Tue Dec 17 02:37:51 UTC 2024: ## India Faces Mountainous Task in Brisbane After Top-Order Collapse
**Brisbane, Australia** – India faces a near-impossible task to salvage a draw in the third Test against Australia after a catastrophic batting collapse on Day 4 at the Gabba. Rain repeatedly interrupted play, but even in the limited time available, Australia’s pace attack decimated India’s top order, leaving them 394 runs behind at the close of play.
Resuming their innings at 51-4, India’s batting woes continued the trend from previous days. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant all fell to relatively straightforward dismissals, highlighting a lack of application against Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. While KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja showed greater resilience and application in a crucial partnership, the damage was already done. Rahul’s eventual dismissal, a brilliant catch by Steven Smith off Lyon, further compounded India’s struggles. Rohit Sharma also fell early, adding to the woes.
Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s impressive six-wicket haul in the first innings, restricting Australia to 445, India’s batting frailties have overshadowed the bowling performance. The team’s inability to apply themselves at the crease, repeatedly playing loose shots, has been a major concern throughout the match.
The weather forecast predicts further showers, casting further doubt on India’s chances of avoiding a heavy defeat. Even achieving a draw now appears a significant challenge, requiring a monumental effort from the lower order. The injury to Josh Hazlewood further complicates matters for Australia, leaving their bowling attack depleted.
First Piper 