When India lost their the fourth wicket score reading 120, with only 35 runs ahead it appeared that they would surrender, but thanks to Ajinkya Rahane and Chetashwara Pujara’s wonderful batting India kept their hopes of winning the match alive. Now 120 plus lead and six wickets still intact India can force a win to level the series. If India take the lead to 200 plus it will be a difficult task for the Australians to chase.
India started their second innings on a positive note, though there was no big contribution from Mukund, who got out for 16. Rahul looked in good touch again, but he was brilliantly caught by the Australian skipper Smith in the slips. Then Kohli was unfortunate to have been given out lbw, while Jadeja, who got promoted did not last long. And when he departed India were in deep trouble. But Rahane and Pujara gave no further chance to the Aussies, rotating the strike excellently. And if they bat till lunch tomorrow, Australians will be on the back foot.
It was Ravindra Jadeja in the morning, who stole the show, taking three of the remaining four wickets. He picked six overall to stop the tourists from getting a big first innings lead.
The first session will be very crucial for both the teams on day four. If Australians can get the remaining six wickets, not giving away many runs they will be in the game or if India can get the lead past 200, the tourists will be in trouble.
By Sudeer Mahavaadi – DD Commentator
