Indian batter KL Rahul heaped praise on Ravindra Jadeja for his vital knock on day four of the third Test against Australia at the Gabba. Rahul described Jadeja as having a “solid technique” and lauded his consistent contributions for India, especially when batting lower down the order.
Jadeja played a crucial innings of 77 runs off 123 balls, striking seven fours and a six at a strike rate of 62.60. His efforts, alongside Rahul’s 84 off 139 balls, helped India fight back and avoid the follow-on after a shaky start. India ended day four at 252/9, still trailing by 193 runs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
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Speaking at the post-match press conference, KL Rahul acknowledged the importance of Jadeja’s innings and his ability to deliver under pressure. “He was brilliant today, and he has been brilliant batting down the order for us for many, many years. That’s what we expect of Jadeja. He has proven time and again that he can deliver, and he’s done this consistently over the years,” Rahul said.
Rahul, who stitched together a much-needed partnership with Jadeja during the innings, further highlighted his enjoyment of batting alongside the all-rounder. “He has a really solid technique, and I enjoy batting with him. I enjoy watching him play and train. He keeps his game plan very simple and sorted, which is great to see. I’m really happy that he came into the team and did the job for us,” Rahul added.
India’s fightback on day four was crucial in a match that initially saw Australia take control. After winning the toss, India opted to field first but failed to take a wicket on day one. On day two, India struck back, reducing Australia to 75/3 with quick dismissals of Usman Khawaja (21), Nathan McSweeney (9), and Marnus Labuschagne (12). However, a massive 241-run stand between Steve Smith (101) and Travis Head (152) swung momentum back in Australia’s favor. Jasprit Bumrah eventually broke the partnership with figures of 5/72, but Australia still ended day two strongly at 405/7.
On day three, Australia’s lower order added valuable runs, with Alex Carey (70) and Mitchell Starc (18) guiding the team to 445 in 117.1 overs. Bumrah led India’s bowling with outstanding figures of 6/76, while Mohammed Siraj took two wickets, and Akash Deep and Nitish Kumar Reddy contributed with one each.
India’s response started poorly as top-order batters Yashasvi Jaiswal (4), Shubman Gill (1), Virat Kohli (3), and Rishabh Pant (9) fell cheaply. However, KL Rahul held firm and finished day three unbeaten on 33.
On day four, India staged a gritty recovery, led by Rahul and Jadeja. Rahul’s composed 84, combined with Jadeja’s aggressive 77, was critical in stabilizing the innings. Lower-order contributions from Akash Deep (27*) and Jasprit Bumrah (10*) further helped India avoid the follow-on.
The third Test remains pivotal in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with the series tied at 1-1. Australia still holds the edge in the contest, with two matches remaining as both teams vie for dominance in this high-stakes series.
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