In what cricket commentators are calling sensational, India, who were in a nearly impossible situation, drew a match after an impressive batting performance on the last day of the test match in Sydney against Australia.
An Australian victory was the writing on the wall when the Indians returned to bat today in the fourth innings. After captain Ajinkya Rahane was out caught sharply at forward short leg, it seemed certain. But a dropped catch off Rishabh Pant by captain Tim Paine turned the tables for India. Pant then broke the shackles and reached 50, and departed at 97, caught off a loose shot.
But his partner Cheteshwar Pujara, known for solid test-style batting, also scored a half century. Ravichandran Ashwin (39 runs off 128 balls) and Hanuma Vihari (23 off 163), batting with an injured hamstring and practically hopping on one leg, then frustrated the Aussie bowlers by staying on until the end.
Australia and India face each other for the fourth and final test match at the Gabba in Brisbane on January 15. Australia have not lost a test at the Gabba since 1988.
Final scores:
Australia 338 and 312/6
India 244 and 334/5
The Sydney test was marred by accusations of racist remarks from the crowd, particularly aimed at pacers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. Reports say the racist fans told Bumrah and Siraj, “You brown dog, go home. We don’t like you,” and “monkeys,” “wanker,” and “mother******s.” The International Cricket Council has condemned the remarks, while Cricket Australia has issued an unconditional apology.
Captain Rahane tweeted:
The Indian team received accolades from popular social media users back home:
