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The third day of the second Test between Australia and West Indies at the Gabba in Brisbane unfolded with a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams. West Indies, after a promising start in the second session, faced a devastating collapse that shattered their hopes of building a substantial lead.
Match-Turning moment: Kavem Hodge’s run-out
The turning point of the day came when the in-form Kavem Hodge fell victim to a brilliant fielding effort by Travis Head. With West Indies positioned comfortably at 148/4 and holding a lead of 170, Hodge’s dismissal via a run-out marked a significant shift in momentum. Head’s quick reflexes and accurate throw caught Hodge short of his crease, potentially altering the course of the match in Australia’s favor.
Joshua Da Silva’s departure adds to West Indies’ woes
Following Hodge’s dismissal, West Indies suffered another setback as Joshua Da Silva, who had previously formed a crucial partnership with Hodge, fell to a catch by Cameron Green off the bowling of Mitchell Starc. Da Silva’s departure further weakened West Indies’ position, leaving them vulnerable to Australia’s bowling attack.
Shamar Joseph gets injured
Adding to West Indies’ woes, fast bowler Shamar Joseph was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the toe by a yorker from Mitchell Starc. Joseph’s injury not only hindered West Indies’ bowling options but also dampened their spirits as they faced an uphill battle against Australia.
Australian response: Steve Smith leads the charge
Despite the early setbacks, Australia remained composed in their pursuit of victory. Steve Smith‘s resilient batting display, accompanied by valuable contributions from other batters, steered Australia towards a commanding position in the match. While West Indies managed to pick up a couple of wickets, Australia’s steady progress put them in a favorable position heading into the final stages of the Test.
Also WATCH: Kevin Sinclair’s classic somersault’ celebration after dismissing Usman Khawaja in Gabba Test – AUS vs WI
Here is how Twitter reacted:
Steve Smith is Such a Great player, because he doesn't repeat his mistake, he learns from them.#AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/ZEK7ZFeNvz
— Rafi (@rafi4999) January 27, 2024
All set for a fascinating finish to this Test 👀
At stumps on Day 3, Australia 2/60, needing 156 more to win.
Scorecard: https://t.co/XVCNTjHhok #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/NNi6u9CTlU
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 27, 2024
Still quite early but Steve Smith is pressing & getting into position on around fourth stump in this innings compared to the first innings when he was nearly on a virtual sixth stump. Good signs #AusvWI
— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) January 27, 2024
All setup for an exciting Day 4 of test cricket at The Gabba #AUSvWI #MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/emJChgAue4
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) January 27, 2024
Well he certainly hasn’t been at his best but he’s still the fastest Australian batsman to reach 16k runs. Just goat things. 🐐❤️#AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/J68IHT7mgC
— Lachy (@Lachy_Steele) January 27, 2024
Australia in an ok position during their run chase: https://t.co/keKYIEa7AZ #cricket #AUSvWI #CricketTimes #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/6rl9EFLhBp
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 27, 2024
Josh Hazlewood on the Aussies rotating the bowlers off the field on day three:
“I think we only do it when it’s absolutely necessary. It’s just the nature of the beast up here in Brisbane … less than eight minutes (off the ground) and you can bowl whenever”@abcsport #AUSvWI
— Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) January 27, 2024
Australia reach stumps on Day 3 on 60-2, they need a further 156 runs to win tomorrow
Just so refreshing that they have to fight for a win for once #AUSvWI
— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) January 27, 2024
Stumps Day 3 Aus Need 156 Runs To Win
Steve Smith is looking good but Roach, Joseph and Greaves have troubled the other end – game on! #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/5FUt3FdnF0
— Tanveer Ahmed (@iamtanveer09) January 27, 2024
Australia need 156 more runs to win the Series. #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/5OZwIYOnRX
— Muhammad Rehan (@rehanwarraich56) January 27, 2024
AUS 60/2 Stumps on Day 3 in Second innings. Australia need 156 Runs. Well played S Smith 33*.#AUSvWI
— JaayShaan (VaidhyaJayaShankar) (@JaayShaan) January 27, 2024
Even if Smith turns it around in opening, the early signs of adaption to the reshuffling from Marnus, Green, and even Usman does not look encouraging.
On the flip side, we might get to see this wafer-thin middle order bailed out a lot more by Cummins and Co.#AUSvWI
— Kris (@krisbot) January 27, 2024
STUMPS: We are set up beautifully for tomorrow! Australia need 156 more runs, West Indies eight wickets #AUSvWI
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 27, 2024
Bring on day 4 tomorrow!!! #ausvwi
— Kate Wall (@TheKateWall) January 27, 2024
Test 2 of 2
Day 3 Session 3
AUS needs 158 to Win#AUSvsWI #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/BWs43LFEhu— Nꪖᦔꫀꫀꪑ Wꪖ᥅꠸ꪀᦔ (@NadeemWarind) January 27, 2024