Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir Celebrate India's Narrow Follow-On Escape; Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah Shines

In a thrilling turn of events, India narrowly avoided the follow-on against Australia on Day 4 of the Gabba Test. Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep's partnership was pivotal in this achievement. Their unbeaten 39-run stand for the last wicket helped India surpass the follow-on target of 246 runs, ending the day at 252/9.

The dressing room erupted with joy as Virat Kohli and coach Gautam Gambhir celebrated India's narrow escape. Kohli was seen cheering every run scored by the last-wicket pair. When Akash Deep hit a boundary to take India past the follow-on mark, Kohli and Gambhir exchanged high-fives, with Rohit Sharma visibly thrilled.

India's Resilience Shines Through

The Indian team showed remarkable resilience under pressure. Bumrah and Akash Deep frustrated the Australian bowlers with their technical skill and composure. This crucial partnership not only saved India from batting again but also set up a potential draw on the final day due to bad weather forecasts.

Akashdeep Supremacy 🔥

India needed 4 Runs to avoid Follow-on, then Akashdeep smashed a Four against Cummins 👏🏻 Arguably, the most important boundary of BGT 2024-25 🥵

The Reactions of Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma says it all 😲#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/yU8bSlVWb6

— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) December 17, 2024

Earlier in the day, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja laid a solid foundation for India with their half-centuries. They added 67 runs for the sixth wicket before Jadeja teamed up with Nitish Reddy for another valuable stand. The lower order then took over, with Bumrah and Akash Deep's defiance keeping India in contention as light faded.

Weather Plays Spoilsport

Persistent rain has significantly impacted this Test match, with multiple delays on Days 3 and 4. Cricket Australia even refunded tickets for Day 1 due to limited play. Despite these interruptions, India's tail-enders ensured they stayed in the game, trailing Australia by 193 runs after four days.

For Australia, Pat Cummins was the standout bowler, taking four wickets for 80 runs. Mitchell Starc claimed three wickets for 83 runs, while Nathan Lyon chipped in with one wicket. Josh Hazlewood missed out due to injury.

Kohli Leads Celebrations

Virat Kohli saluted Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah as they returned to the dressing room after their heroic stand. Several players, including KL Rahul, gathered near the boundary ropes to welcome them back. The camaraderie within the team was evident as they celebrated this small victory together.

KL Rahul emerged as India's top scorer with an impressive 84 runs before being dismissed by Nathan Lyon. Rain and bad light defined much of Tuesday's play, causing repeated delays throughout the day.

The Brisbane Test is crucial in this five-match series currently tied at 1-1. However, persistent rain has dampened its significance. With more wet weather expected on Wednesday, a draw seems likely.