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Australia have set India a challenging target of 275 runs in the Gabba Test after declaring their second innings at 89/7.
India pick quick wickets in Australia’s second innings
In a match filled with twists and turns, the hosts decided to pull the plug on their innings early on Day 5, banking on their bowling attack to defend the total in Brisbane’s notoriously tricky fourth-innings conditions.
Australia’s second innings began with India on the front foot, as the visitors’ bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to restrict run-scoring and pick wickets regularly. Pat Cummins (22 off 10) and Alex Carey (20 off 20) contributed vital lower-order runs after the top-order collapsed under pressure. Indian pacers Jasprit Bumrah (3/18), Akash Deep (2/28) and Mohammed Shami (2/34) were instrumental in keeping the Australian batters in check.
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In the first innings, Australia posted 445, with Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) leading the charge. India responded with 260 all out, thanks to a fiery spell from Pat Cummins (4/81) and support from Mitchell Starc (3/83). This left India trailing by 185 runs, but the bowlers fought back to keep the match alive with their stellar display in Australia’s second innings.
A tricky chase for Team India
With 275 runs needed for victory, the focus now shifts to India’s batting lineup, which has struggled in the last two matches. The Gabba pitch, offering inconsistent bounce and lateral movement, will test the visitors’ resilience. India’s hopes will rest on KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant, who must anchor the chase against a formidable Australian attack.
Australia, led by Cummins, Starc and spinner Nathan Lyon, will be confident of defending the target in absence of injured Josh Hazlewood. The Gabba’s history of aiding bowlers in the fourth innings makes this a daunting task for India.
As the game heads into its final act, fans worldwide await a thrilling conclusion to this highly competitive Test match. Will India script a memorable chase, or will Australia continue their dominance in Brisbane? The final two sessions promises high drama at the Gabba.
