On the fifth day of the third Test at the Gabba, Australia captain Pat Cummins delivered a fitting reply to India’s Akash Deep in a moment of fierce cricketing rivalry. It unfolded during Australia’s second innings as Cummins exacted revenge for a stunning six he had conceded to Akash Deep earlier in the match.
The sequence began with Akash Deep bowling a short-of-a-length delivery that failed to rise as expected, barely reaching Cummins’ shoulders. Seizing the opportunity, Cummins unleashed his power, smashing the ball over midwicket for a spectacular six that electrified the Brisbane crowd. It was a moment that underscored the competitive spirit of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The narrative of this duel traces back to Day 4 when Akash Deep, batting at No. 11, took the fight to Cummins during India’s first innings. Deep had struck a massive six off Cummins over midwicket, using sheer brute force to deposit a length ball well beyond the boundary. His invaluable 31 off 44 balls showcased his resilience and played a crucial role in India avoiding the follow-on.
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Aakash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah formed a spirited last-wicket partnership of 47 runs, frustrating the Australian bowlers and keeping India in the contest. Akash Deep’s innings ended as the final wicket of India’s first innings, with Travis Head stumping him off a clever delivery. India was bowled out for 260, setting the stage for an eventful final day.
Pat Cummins definitely didn’t forget about Akash Deep hitting him for six 😅#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/UW7ZOLUuMe
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 18, 2024
After a rain delay, Australia began their second innings aggressively, aiming to pile on quick runs. However, Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep produced a fiery opening spell, reducing the hosts to a shocking 33-5. Bumrah’s precision and Akash Deep’s persistence dismantled the Australian top order, creating a thrilling battle on Day 5.
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Despite Travis Head and Alex Carey forming a brief resistance, Mohammed Siraj struck to dismiss Head, leaving Australia struggling at 89-7. The Indian bowlers, led by Bumrah, Deep, and Siraj, kept the pressure on, making it clear that the final day would be a test of nerves and skill for both teams. Cummins’ six may have been a moment of individual brilliance, but the day belonged to India’s relentless bowling attack, keeping them firmly in control of the match.
