The third day of the highly anticipated World Test Championship final in 2023 witnessed significant developments as India’s first innings concluded at 296 runs. Australia, holding a substantial lead of 173 runs, began their second innings during the second session. However, amidst the on-field action, an amusing incident occurred when Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne was found peacefully sleeping in the dressing room, completely padded up.
Labuschagne’s tranquility was short-lived as opener David Warner fell to Mohammed Siraj’s delivery in just the fourth over of Australia’s innings. The left-hander edged the ball straight into the hands of wicketkeeper KS Bharat, granting India their first breakthrough. The crowd’s jubilant response stirred Labuschagne from his slumber, prompting him to hastily make his way to the pitch to take his place at number three.
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Returning to the action on Day 3, India resumed their innings at 151/5 with Ajinkya Rahane and KS Bharat at the crease. However, Australia swiftly found success as Scott Boland penetrated Bharat’s defenses, sending his stumps flying on only the second ball of the day.
WATCH – Cameron Green Takes Stunning Catch to Dismiss Ajinkya Rahane
Subsequently, Shardul Thakur arrived at the crease and enjoyed early reprieves, being dropped by Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green. Thakur’s luck continued as he survived two close lbw appeals, with the umpire’s call and a no-ball favoring him. Making the most of these opportunities, Thakur engaged in a monumental 109-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Ajinkya Rahane, who scored a resilient 89 runs. Their formidable alliance injected fresh hope into Indian fans, as the team accumulated 108 runs in the morning session.
Regrettably, the joyous period was short-lived, as Australia managed to dismiss India for 296 runs in the second session. Shardul Thakur, exhibiting tremendous resilience, completed his third consecutive half-century at The Oval, amassing 51 runs off 109 balls.
WATCH – Shardul Thakur Brave in Face of Pat Cummins’ Blows in WTC Final
Notably, he became only the second batsman, after the legendary Don Bradman, to achieve three consecutive fifty-plus scores at the revered venue. With Australia set to commence their second innings, the stage is set for a gripping contest between the two teams. The match’s outcome hangs delicately in the balance, intensifying the anticipation and excitement surrounding this pinnacle clash in the World Test Championship final.
