Brisbane: Australia vs India: Rain played the decisive role on 3rd test as draw at the Gabba, as anticipated.

But not before Australia and India set up a series of fascinating possibilities during the 22 overs.

Australia secured a significant 185-run lead in the first innings, dismissing India’s last wicket within four overs.

In pursuit of victory, Australia opted for an aggressive approach in their second innings, losing quick wickets.

They declared at 89 for 7 after 18 overs, setting India a target of 275 runs to chase in 54 overs.

However, just 2.1 overs into India’s innings, play was halted due to poor light.

The subsequent rain has confirmed early conclusion.

Australia’s brief batting effort on final day showcased various potential outcomes this match could have.

Pitch provided considerable seam movement and variable bounce, where they exploited to claim five wickets in just 11 overs.

However, Australia’s aggressive intent to score quickly also played a part in their downfall.

They promoted Mitchell Marsh to No. 4, sent Travis Head in ahead of Steven Smith, and maintained an attacking mindset.

Despite losing wickets with Travis Head, Alex Carey, and Pat Cummins collectively contributing 59 runs off 49 balls.

Given the assistance for the bowlers, Australia vs India may have envisioned bowling India out quickly.

On the other hand, India, recognizing the run-scoring opportunities and the absence of one of Australia’s fast bowlers.

This could have considered a calculated chase if they survived the initial overs unscathed.

Australia vs India: Draw Scenario

In the end, the draw turned out to be an ideal result for the series, with the teams tied 1-1.

Australia’s declaration at 89 for 7 drew comparisons to a historic Test match at the Gabba in 1950.

Then, England declared at 68 for 7, followed by Australia’s declaration at 32 for 7, on a challenging pitch.

While covered pitches have made such occurrences rare today, the declaration in this match brought back memories.

Jasprit Bumrah might have disappointed when Australia declared, as he had just returned to bowl a new spell and dismissed Pat Cummins.

This took Bumrah’s wicket tally in the match to nine, leaving him tantalizingly close to achieving his first-ever ten-wicket haul.

This is one of the few milestones missing from his illustrious career.