December 14, 2024 – The much-anticipated Day 1 of the Third Test between Australia and India at The Gabba was marred by rain, with only 13.2 overs of play possible before the weather forced officials to call off proceedings for the day.
Winning the toss, India opted to bowl first in conditions that promised assistance for the pacers, but persistent rain overshadowed what could have been an exciting day of cricket.
India’s bowlers initially struggled to make an impact, as Australia’s openers, Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney, batted with discipline. The overcast conditions and a grassy pitch offered some assistance, but the Indian pacers failed to exploit it effectively. Khawaja looked particularly composed at the crease, while McSweeney showed resilience against the new ball. Just as Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep began to find rhythm, creating a few nervy moments for the Australian batters, rain halted the session after just 5.3 overs.
Although the rain subsided briefly, allowing a resumption, another heavy downpour soon followed, washing out the remainder of the day’s play. The match officials eventually decided to call it a day. Updates throughout the day kept fans hopeful, but the weather refused to relent.
Looking ahead, play on the remaining four days is scheduled to start 30 minutes earlier to compensate for the lost time, with the first ball set to be bowled at 11:50 pm GMT (5:20 am IST). However, the forecast predicts more rain over the last three days, raising concerns about the match heading toward a draw.
For Day 2, India’s bowlers will aim to regroup and deliver more consistent lines and lengths to put Australia’s batters under pressure. Khawaja and McSweeney, meanwhile, will look to survive the early exchanges and build a foundation.
Despite the disappointing start, cricket fans remain hopeful for more action in the days ahead, as both teams prepare to adapt to the unpredictable weather and challenging conditions.