Tue Dec 17 18:28:47 UTC 2024: ## India Avoids Follow-On in Tense Brisbane Test
**Brisbane, Australia –** India staved off a potentially devastating follow-on in the third Test against Australia thanks to crucial lower-order contributions and a resolute half-century from KL Rahul. Ending day four at 252/9, India prevented an innings defeat, keeping the series alive.
Rahul praised the vital 39-run partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, highlighting the importance of lower-order batting. He stated that the bowlers’ contributions, particularly their resilience against a pacey Australian attack, would boost team morale. Bumrah and Deep’s performance, marked by powerful shots and solid defense, was particularly impressive given the challenging pitch conditions and the pressure of avoiding a follow-on.
Rahul also scored a significant 84, alongside Ravindra Jadeja’s 77, providing the backbone of India’s fightback. He admitted to the mental preparation for a potential second innings but expressed his delight at the bowlers’ unexpected contribution. The day was punctuated by rain interruptions, which Rahul described as tiring but equally challenging for both teams.
Earlier in the match, Australia, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted a strong first innings total of 445, fueled by significant partnerships. India’s batting struggled initially in their first innings but Rahul’s unbeaten 33 at the end of day three provided a platform for the team’s impressive day four turnaround. The series, currently tied at 1-1, heads into the final two matches with the contest finely balanced.
First Piper 