The third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba witnessed a tense atmosphere as Mohammed Siraj faced boos from the Australian crowd. The hostility followed his heated exchange with Travis Head during the second Test in Adelaide, which saw both players sanctioned by the ICC.
While Mohammad Siraj and Head appeared to move past the issue, even sharing a hug post-match, the crowd at Brisbane made their displeasure known whenever Siraj bowled. India won the toss and opted to bowl first, influenced by overcast skies and a lively green pitch. However, the Australian batters handled the Indian pacers with composure early on.
Under pressure to deliver after a string of low scores, Usman Khawaja seemed to find his rhythm. His solid start offered promise, but the real test would be converting it into a significant innings. Rain disruptions added another layer of complexity to the Gabba Test, with two interruptions on Day 1 leading to an early lunch.
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The forecast suggests rain might impact all five days, potentially testing the adaptability of both teams. With the series tied 1-1, this match holds immense significance as both sides aim to take a crucial lead in their quest for a spot in the World Test Championship final.
Big boo for siraj from the crowd#AUSvIND #TheGabba pic.twitter.com/rQp5ekoIak
— ٭𝙉𝙄𝙏𝙄𝙎𝙃٭ (@nitiszhhhh) December 14, 2024
India made bold changes to their lineup, dropping the out-of-form Harshit Rana for Akash Deep. Additionally, Ravichandran Ashwin was replaced by Ravindra Jadeja, continuing India’s trend of rotating their spinners. Washington Sundar played the first Test, Ashwin the second, and now Jadeja takes centre stage. This tactical shift highlights India’s attempts to adapt to varying conditions.
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Australia, in contrast, made only one change, with Josh Hazlewood returning after recovering from a side strain. He replaced Scott Boland, reinforcing Australia’s bowling attack. Hazlewood’s inclusion is expected to strengthen the hosts’ pace unit on a Gabba surface that traditionally favours fast bowlers.
