Rainy Gabba Test ends in a draw despite Australia’s best efforts on Day 5

STUMPS

The third Test between Australia and India in Brisbane has played out in a draw thanks to persistent rain falling across the city over the length of the match.

Despite the weather, a thrilling second session was able to occur on Day 5 with Australia attacking to post a target and bring a result into the equation, eventually reaching 7/89 declared from 18 overs.

That set India 275 to win, but the visitors reached only 0/8 before rain fell again and the game was called off after Tea.

Jasprit Bumrah (3/18) was again in the wickets during Australia’s innings as several players got out to loose shots attacking the ball, with Mohammed Siraj (2/36) and Akash Deep (2/28) also cashing in.

Worryingly for Australia, Travis Head looked in some discomfort during his innings of 17 from 19 balls. The home side will be keeping their fingers crossed that he’s not injured after he scored 152 in the first innings, backing up his ton at the Adelaide Oval.

With the series tied 1-1, the next Test is set for Melbourne which begins on Boxing Day at the MCG.

There are two matches remaining in the five-Test series, with the final clash at the SCG in the new year.

Listen to every ball of the series LIVE on SEN and the SEN app.

EARLIER

The third Test between Australia and India appears destined to end in a draw after another weather-affected session to start Day 5.

While play was able to start allowing Australia to bowl India out for 260, lightning held both Nathan McSweeney and Usman Khawaja at bay as they went out to bat to start the home side’s second innings.

With rain falling thereafter, the Aussies are yet to begin their second innings, with a result looking increasingly unlikely as bad weather continues to linger around Brisbane.

Perhaps the only way a result can be achieved is if Australia declares before the second session or very early into it, setting India a target of what would be 186 now or something close to that.

If Australia set India a small target, it could tempt the visitors into chasing victory, bringing wickets into the equation.

But with all of the decision-making in Australia’s hands, it appears far more likely that they’ll first ensure they can’t lose the game before pushing for a victory.

Pending rain, play will resume for the second session at 1:40pm (AEDT) and 12:40pm (local time).

An extra half-hour can be taken at the end of the day. Listen to every ball LIVE on SEN and the SEN app.