Akash Deep brought joy to Indian fans by helping the team avoid the follow-on during the ongoing third Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane on Tuesday, December 17. He struck a full delivery from Pat Cummins, sending the ball soaring over the deep mid-wicket for a spectacular six that reached the second tier of the stands. It was evident that he had been eager to unleash that shot, and when he finally did, it electrified the atmosphere.
The reaction from the Indian dressing room was priceless and added to the excitement of the moment. Virat Kohli leapt from his seat, eyes wide in disbelief at the distance of the shot, while Rohit Sharma, seated nearby, couldn’t hold back his laughter. Other team members, including Abhishek Nayar and coach Gautam Gambhir, joined in the celebration. Kohli’s astonishment at Akash Deep’s achievement quickly spread across social media, turning their jubilation into a viral sensation.
Following the six, Akash Deep missed the next delivery, and play was halted due to insufficient light. Although one ball remained in Cummins’ over, the day came to an early close, leading to the possibility of another incomplete day, with only 57.5 overs played. The likelihood of a draw looms large.
Australia, dealing with a bowler shortage, will resume on Day 5 aiming to secure the final Indian wicket early, then quickly add 100-150 runs to set India an opportunity to bat again. Yet, if the trend of disrupted play continues, a draw may be the only outcome in sight.
