India has positioned themselves strongly for a potential draw in the Gabba Test, with a vital last-wicket stand between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep saving them from the follow-on. The forecast for the final day is for more rain, which could benefit India. With 2mm to 25mm of rain predicted, interruptions are likely on Wednesday, similar to the fourth day when only 58 overs were bowled.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has warned of a “high chance of showers,” with thunderstorms potentially intensifying in the late morning and afternoon. If the weather allows, 98 overs are scheduled for the final day, but Australia faces challenges in forcing a result with limited time.
Australia would need to dismiss India’s last wicket quickly and then set a target in the region of 300 runs, with around 70 overs remaining. This would require aggressive batting and rapid scoring, especially as light fades in Brisbane by around 5.30pm local time. However, with Josh Hazlewood out due to a calf injury, the Australians are one bowler short, putting extra pressure on Nathan Lyon and the quicks.
Lyon, along with Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, may need to bowl more overs to make up for Hazlewood’s absence. Australia’s assistant coach, Daniel Vettori, noted that frequent breaks had kept the fast bowlers fresh, but the situation remains tough with Hazlewood sidelined.
KL Rahul, who top-scored with 84 for India, acknowledged the challenge posed by the interruptions, noting the difficulty of repeatedly returning to the field after breaks. Both teams have faced frustration, but the unpredictable weather adds another layer of complexity to the contest.
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