Brisbane: The opening day of the third Test between India and Australia was marred by rain, forcing an early lunch after Australia reached 28 without loss in 13.2 overs. The weather played a decisive role as the match saw two interruptions, with steady drizzle halting play during the sixth over and later bringing proceedings to a stop again.
Opting to bat first after being invited by India, Australia’s openers Usman Khawaja (19 not out) and Nathan McSweeney (4 not out) showcased resilience against India’s pace attack on a damp pitch. Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah (0/8 in 6 overs), Mohammed Siraj (0/13 in 4 overs), and Akash Deep (0/2 in 3.2 overs) struggled to find breakthroughs under challenging conditions.
Earlier, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to field, citing overcast skies and a grassy pitch as favorable for seam bowling. Sharma emphasized the importance of seizing key moments after their previous defeat. India made two changes, bringing in Ravindra Jadeja and Akash Deep in place of Ravichandran Ashwin and Harshit Rana.
Australia, aiming to build on their momentum from Adelaide, included Josh Hazlewood in their XI after his recovery from a side strain, with Scott Boland sitting out. Captain Pat Cummins acknowledged they would have preferred to bowl first under the conditions.
With the series tied at 1-1, both teams are eager to claim the decisive third match. However, weather disruptions on Day 1 have added an unpredictable dimension to the game. The pitch is expected to improve for batting as the match progresses.
