In the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India fought back valiantly to draw the Test after conceding a huge first innings lead and losing players to injuries. Indian skipper Ajinkya Rahane was visibly pleased with the team’s performance and gave updates regarding the status of injured players for the Gabba Test.
“Injuries we cannot control” said Rahane during the post match presentation.“ Rishabh Pant is alright. Physios will take a call a call on Jadeja.” he added. Pant was magnificent during his 118 ball stay at the crease as his counter-attack on Lyon made Indian fans hopeful of a victory. This could be a career changing knock for the young man who has been down on confidence ever since cricket resumed after lockdown.
“Left-hand right-hand combination in the middle worked out well for us” proclaimed Rahane when asked whether it was a pre-planned strategy to thwart Australia’s world class bowling attack. “ Credit to him (Pant) for the way he batted. He backed himself really well” said Rahane about Pant’s glorious counter-attack.
“There are a few areas which we can work on but credits to Vihari and Ashwin for showing a lot of character” added Rahane as the duo batted forty overs and faced some tough spells from Aussie quicks. Both Vihari and Ashwin spent more than three hours at the crease and ensured a draw for their team.
Vihari’s special effort was lauded by his skipper as he kept batting despite a visible discomfort in his hamstring. He also added that a decision on Vihari regarding his availability for the Gabba Test will be made in the upcoming days.
Opposition skipper Tim Paine also lauded the efforts of Ashwin and Vihari while adding that Australia played better cricket in this Test than in Melbourne or Adelaide. The Gabba Test is all set to begin on January 15 as the Indian team will travel after a drama surrounding the quarantine restrictions.
