India managed to survive the last day and secure a thrilling draw in their third test against Australia in Sydney.
The tourists India battled against the odds and were indebted to Rishabh Pant (97) and Chasteshwar Pujara (77) for helping them have an improved showing with the bat.
When both men fell in quick succession, Hanuma Vihari and Ravi Ashwin came together to show further defiance to frustrate the hosts Australia.
What made the draw all the impressive, was that Vihari suffered a hamstring injury, his 23 was scored off 161 balls.
The Sunrisers Hyderabad man is almost certain to miss the fourth test in Brisbane.
Fellow spinner Ravi Jadeja is also likely to be absent for the fourth test after the 32-year old all-rounder suffered a fractured thumb. As impressive as this spirited draw has been, it seems to have come at a cost for India.
As for the hosts Australia, their usually potent bowling attack was blunted by India’s rearguard. Three drop catches by Aussie skipper Tim Paine, didn’t help their cause.
What the world champions can take from this performance is that debutant Will Puckovski scored a debut 50 and looks like he belongs at this level, and Steve Smith returned to form after a barren scoring run in this series.
So as disappointing as this draw was there were some positives for sure. Australia produced a brilliant battling display to come back from the disappointment of the second test.
As entertaining as the third test was, there was an incident of apparent racism. India players reported that members of the crowd. This is an allegation at this point, one would hope this isn’t the case.
Australia, have hosted a brilliant test series, and the last thing we want is for this test to be remembered for matters off the pitch. The fourth test between the two sides starts on 15th January.
The Bearded Captain 