Australia’s Cameron Green showcased his fielding brilliance as he grabbed a sensational catch off Pat Cummins’ delivery to send India’s Ajinkya Rahane back to the pavilion on the third day of the World Championship final. Rahane, who was batting impressively and closing in on a Test century, fell victim to Cummins’ short-of-length delivery. Trying to play away from his body, he edged the ball, and Green, stationed at gully, displayed exceptional reflexes to take the catch with one hand.
In the match earlier on Friday, India endured a fierce onslaught from the Australian bowlers but managed to reach lunch at 260-6 at The Oval. Rahane remained composed amidst the turmoil, remaining unbeaten on 89, while Shardul Thakur, who survived a dropped catch and endured painful hits on his arm, contributed an unbeaten 36. After a challenging second day where India struggled at 151-5 in response to Australia’s first-innings total of 469, the morning session proved to be a painful start for the top-ranked team.
WATCH – Shardul Thakur Brave in Face of Pat Cummins’ Blows in WTC Final
The day began with fast bowler Scott Boland delivering a fierce ball that disturbed Srikar Bharat’s stumps on the second ball, leaving India trailing by 317 runs and facing the daunting task of avoiding the follow-on with only four wickets remaining.
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A few overs later, Thakur experienced the full force of the fast bowlers’ power as he was struck on his right arm by consecutive deliveries from Australian captain Pat Cummins, causing him to drop his bat and wince in pain. Despite the challenges, Thakur managed to survive a dropped catch at gully by Cameron Green and a close lbw call on 36, which was overturned by the Decision Review System (DRS) due to a no-ball by Cummins.
While Thakur lived dangerously, Rahane played a crucial role in reviving India’s hopes with his elegant shot selection. The duo formed an unbroken 108-run partnership for the seventh wicket.
WATCH – Ajinkya Rahane Smashes a Remarkable Six in Epic Comeback Performance
Ajinkya Rahane showcased his skill and determination, scoring a sublime boundary and a magnificent six to bring up his 26th Test half-century. He shouldered the responsibility of a nation eager to win their first ICC trophy in a decade and avoid back-to-back defeats in WTC finals.
