Brisbane, Australia — Travis Head helped Australia finish India’s first innings at 260 runs, giving Australia an 185-run lead on the last day of the third cricket test on Wednesday. However, more cricket wasn’t possible because of lightning and heavy rain at the Gabba.
After four days of play, India was at 252-9 in their first innings, needing to make up 193 runs. Thankfully, India scored quickly towards the end to avoid following on and let Australia bat again—if the weather allowed it.
The series is tied at 1-1, but this crucial test match turned into a rain-filled disappointment. Rain delays have caused problems, and tickets have been refunded for about 35,000 fans who attended the first day since not enough overs were played. Just 13 overs were bowled on the first day, and there were eight rain stoppages on the third day.
On Tuesday, rain kept interrupting the game. Play ended after only 58 overs were bowled that day, and Wednesday didn’t seem any better.
Unfortunately, Australia might have to play with one less bowler since Josh Hazlewood hurt his calf. He could only bowl one over before leaving the field. Hazlewood was already late to play and looked uncomfortable when he bowled.
Cricket Australia’s performance director, Ben Oliver, mentioned, “Josh was fit for this match but got a new calf injury during warm-up.” Scott Boland, who took five wickets in Adelaide, is expected to return for the test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on December 26.
India won the first test by 295 runs in Perth, while Australia rebounded to take the second day-night test in Adelaide by 10 wickets.
