A frustrating day unfolded for Indian cricket fans as persistent rain disrupted the first session of the third Test between India and Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After India opted to bowl first at the Gabba, only 13.2 overs were possible before heavy showers forced an early lunch.
Indian pacers, including Jasprit Bumrah, struggled to make an impact under overcast conditions as the ball refused to swing despite repeated efforts. Bumrah’s frustration was evident and caught on the stump microphone during his opening spell. “Nahi ho raha swing, kahin bhi kar (There is no swing, no matter where you bowl),” he muttered as he returned to his mark in the fifth over.
The Australian openers, Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney, capitalized on the conditions, showing grit and solid technique to negotiate India’s early attack. The pair reached 28 without loss in a rain-marred first session. Khawaja, with his composed batting, managed to pull Mohammed Siraj for a boundary just before a brief rain delay and added another after the play resumed.
Siraj bowled an initial three-over spell before being replaced by debutant Akash Deep, who impressed with his discipline. Bowling in the off-stump channel, Akash used his stock delivery effectively to trouble the Australian batsmen. However, just as Siraj began finding rhythm in his second spell by pitching the ball further up and using angles, the rain returned, halting the momentum.
At lunch, Australia stood at 28/0, with Khawaja steady at the crease and McSweeney playing defensively on 4 from 33 balls. The Indian bowlers, led by Bumrah, will look to regroup and adjust their plans once the weather clears, as the hosts hold a slight edge heading into the next session.
This stop-start day marks a test of patience and adaptability for both teams in a series that has already seen its fair share of drama.
