Brisbane Test: India alive in the contest despite Gill's dismissal
Budding opener Shubman Gill came close to scoring his maiden Test century in the second session on Day 5 at the Gabba. His 91-run knock has bolstered India's chances of stealing what could be one of the greatest Test victories. He shared a century-stand with Cheteshwar Pujara before falling to Nathan Lyon. Later on, skipper Ajinkya Rahane too departed for 24. Here is more.
Gill and Pujara were in charge after Australia got rid of Rohit Sharma in the morning session. While Gill played the aggressor, Pujara dealt with the Australian bowlers in his usual manner. However, an untimely edge off Nathan Lyon resulted in Gill's wicket. After a few overs, Pat Cummins sent back Rahane. Rishabh Pant has come in ahead of Mayank Agarwal.
Although youngster Gill missed out on a match-winning century, his blazing knock set the tone of Indian innings. He didn't leave any opportunity to score runs, especially on the daunting bouncers. He fired a blistering 91 off 146 balls, a knock that was studded with 8 fours and 2 sixes. This was his second half-century of the series.
Contrary to Gill's aggressive approach, Pujara exhibited his defiance. He firmly held one end even after Gill departed in the post-lunch session. Notably, Pujara suffered quite a few blows to his wrist and head while dealing with bouncers. He was also attended by India's physio on several occasions. Pujara ended up scoring 43* off 168 balls before tea.
Gill and Pujara shared a 114-run knock for the second wicket as India struggled on 18/1 after Rohit departed. Pujara steadied the Indian innings, playing the rescuer, while Gill kept smashing the Australian bowlers for boundaries. The century-stand lifted India's hopes to win the Test.
Off-spinner Nathan Lyon gave Australia the crucial breakthrough in the form of Gill (91). The experienced spinner has now dismissed six batsmen in the 90s (scores of 90 to 99) in Test cricket. Four of them are Indians, with three in the 4th innings - Vijay 99, 2014 (4th inns), Rahul 90, 2017, Pant 97, 2021 (4th inns), Gill 91, 2021 (4th inns).
