Nitish Kumar Reddy's impressive batting performance on the fourth day of the India vs Australia test match helped India reach a total of 369 runs in their first innings, cutting Australia's lead to just 105 runs. India's bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, put pressure on the Australian team, resulting in four wickets for Bumrah and the milestone of 200 test wickets. Despite a stubborn partnership from Labuschagne and Cummins, India's Mohammed Siraj made a crucial breakthrough, bringing the match back in India's favor.
Background:
The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia began on March 9th, 2023, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Australia had won the toss and elected to bat, posting a mammoth total of 475 runs. In reply, India struggled initially but came back strongly on the fourth day thanks to some impressive batting performances.
Nitish Kumar Reddy's Batting Masterclass:
Nitish Kumar Reddy, a relatively unknown cricketer, played a pivotal role in India's recovery. Coming in at number eight, he scored a crucial 63 runs, helping India reach a respectable total of 369 runs. Reddy's knock was characterized by grit, determination, and some eye-catching strokes.
India's Bowling Comeback:
Despite trailing by a significant margin, India's bowlers fought back admirably. Led by Jasprit Bumrah, they claimed four wickets in quick succession, including the prized scalps of David Warner and Steve Smith. Bumrah also reached the milestone of 200 Test wickets during this spell.
A Stubborn Partnership:
Australia's Marnus Labuschagne and Pat Cummins forged a resilient partnership, threatening to take the game away from India. However, Mohammed Siraj made a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Labuschagne for 108. India then regained control of the match.
FAQs:
1. Who was the top scorer for India in the first innings? Answer: Nitish Kumar Reddy (63 runs)
2. How many wickets did Jasprit Bumrah take in the match? Answer: 4 wickets
3. Which Australian batsman scored a century in the first innings? Answer: Marnus Labuschagne (108 runs)
4. Who made the breakthrough for India that turned the match in their favor? Answer: Mohammed Siraj
5. What is the current lead of Australia in the match? Answer: 105 runs (at the end of the fourth day)
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