The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 between Australia and India has delivered plenty of action and surprises on Day 2 of the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane. While Travis Head’s remarkable 152 and Steve Smith’s gritty 101 stood out on the cricketing front, the match witnessed a lighter, quirky moment off the field with fans donning Star Wars-inspired outfits.
A group of fans, nicknamed “Gabbatroopers,” attended the match dressed as Stormtroopers, iconic characters from the legendary Star Wars movie series. Adding to the spectacle, one fan even sported a Darth Vader costume, which created a fun and whimsical atmosphere in the stands.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) joined in on the fun, sharing images of the “Gabbatroopers” on social media, much to the delight of cricket enthusiasts. Their presence offered a playful distraction amidst the intensity of the game, especially following some hostile crowd behaviour directed at Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj.
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While there’s no historical link between cricket and Star Wars, these costumed fans have appeared in the past during marquee cricketing events like The Ashes. Their jovial energy provided a light-hearted twist to an otherwise competitive contest.
The Gabba troopers are in the house for the Third Test💪@FOURNTWENTY #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/aD3VNvbGaF
— SEN Cricket (@SEN_Cricket) December 14, 2024
Hope there are no members of the rebellion at the Gabba? @DarthVader is here this morning with his Storm Troopers (Gabbatroopers) and seeking vengeance on Day 2 of the #AUSvIND Test.
Part of the fun on @abcsport this morning during @QuentinHull & @dirk_nannes opening stint pic.twitter.com/GnLWosQY2c
— Zane Bojack (@zanofc) January 16, 2021
On the field, Australia dominated proceedings after a rain-hit Day 1. Travis Head continued his fine form, smashing another century to break his lean patch at The Gabba. Steve Smith also bounced back from recent struggles, adding a valuable 241-run partnership with Head. Their heroics placed Australia in a commanding position, despite India’s initial breakthroughs.
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Jasprit Bumrah, once again, was the standout performer for India, claiming a crucial five-wicket haul, including Smith’s dismissal. India’s bowlers capitalized with the second new ball late in the day to halt Australia’s momentum. At stumps, Australia stood at 347/6, with Alex Carey and skipper Pat Cummins at the crease. The match is poised for an intriguing Day 3 as India seeks to claw back into the contest.
