WTC Final, Australia vs India Day 3 Live Score and UpdatesAjinkya Rahane, KS Bharat key in India’s fightback

After failing to make a mark with the ball on Day 1, Indian bowlers roared back on Day 2 and bowled Australia out for 469. In reply, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill got India off to a positive start. However, the Indian batters fell prey to errors in judgement and were soon reduced to 71-4. Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja forged a solid recovery, but Jadeja’s departure before Stumps put them in a hole once again. A lot will rest on the shoulders of Ajinkya Rahane, and he will require support from the lower order. Can he bail India out of trouble? Let’s find out, as action on Day 3 is coming up shortly.

For Australia, Steven Smith and Travis Head picked up where they left off and consolidated their side’s position. Australia did lose their way a bit, but Alex Carey played a handy cameo to help his side stretch the first-inning total. Pat Cummins and Co. showed exceptional control with the ball and kept troubling the Indian batters. Australia would want to make good use of the early movement on Day 3 and run through India’s lower order to take a healthy first-innings lead.

Hello and a warm welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to our coverage of Day 3 of the 2021–23 World Test Championship final between Australia and India at the Kennington Oval in London. Having dominated the Test with the bat on Day 1, Australia backed it up with the ball on Day 2 and have a firm grip on the final after two days of play.

… DAY 3, SESSION 1 …

Another day goes to Australia and they will now look to ascertain their claim to the title on Day 3 which is the moving day of the Test match. To be fair, we had ample movement on Day 2 as the Indian batters could not complement the good work done by their bowlers and are looking to be sinking deeper into the sand pit. They need a rope to hang onto here and the Aussies have not given them an inch. The action continues on Friday 9th June for Day 3 of this ultimate Test match and the first ball will be bowled at 3 pm IST (9.30 am GMT) but do join us early for the build-up. Cheers!

Scott Boland is in for a flash interview. He says that it is really exciting to play in the World Test Championship final and adds he had a nervous past couple of days. Mentions that it was nice to knock Shubman Gill over. Hopes that they can pick more wickets in the morning. Feels that they are in a really strong position after two days. Shares that the pitch is playing up and down with few balls taking off while few have kept low as well.

Australia came into Day 2 in a comfortable position and looked to be well on course to post a mammoth total on the board. Steven Smith took 2 deliveries to reach his century and Travis Head soon after got to his 150. After a decent start, the Aussies began losing wickets in a bundle as Mohammed Siraj dismissed Head for 163 and Cameron Green could not contribute with the bat. India made the morning session theirs when Shardul Thakur got Steven Smith to chop the ball onto the stumps and Mitchell Starc got run out taking a risky run. The Aussies still had 422 runs on the board going into the Lunch break having lost 7 wickets and would have still been aiming to get to the 500-run mark. Ravindra Jadeja picked up his first wicket of the game in the second session when he dismissed Alex Carey just short of his half-century and Mohammed Siraj added the finishing touches by dismissing Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins with Australia scoring 469 runs in the first inning. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill started well but lost their wickets before going in for Tea and never looked like they would recover from it in the final session. Australia will be proud of the efforts as all the five bowlers they have used so far have claimed one wicket each.

SESSION SUMMARY – 114 runs, 28 overs, 3 wickets. Australia have consolidated their position in this game as they are staring at a massive first-inning lead. They had India in all sorts of trouble at the Tea break having dismissed both their openers with the scoreboard reading 30 and would have been looking to start this final session well. They opted to go with Cameron Green from one side and he justified their faith in him by claiming the crucial wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara who did not offer a shot and saw his off pole destroyed. Mitchell Starc did not look to be in good rhythm but just as he has done so often in the past bowled an absolute jaffa to dismiss Virat Kohli who was looking determined at the wicket. India suddenly found themselves 71 for the loss of four wickets till Ravindra Jadeja came out with positive intent and scored 48 runs in 51 deliveries. He added 71 runs in 100 balls with Ajinkya Rahane but fell to the guile of Nathan Lyon close to Stumps. Rahane got a lifeline when Pat Cummins caught him in front of the stumps but overstepped the bowling crease and he holds the flame of hope for India at the moment. With India still trailing by 318 runs, Australia have a great opportunity to attack them in the morning session of Day 3.

37.6Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Pitched up, outside off, KS Bharat free his arms and guides it wide of third man for a couple of runs. That will be Stumps on Day 2!

37.5Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Shortish length, angling across, outside off, KS Bharat is happy to let this one pass.

37.4Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Around middle, on a good length, KS Bharat gets behind the line and keeps it out towards mid on.

37.3Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Goes full this time and outside off, KS Bharat goes for a drive away from the body and is lucky to not edge this one behind.

Slight halt! KS Bharat has taken it clean on the elbow and looks to be in trouble. The physios are out to check on him and it seems like this will most certainly be the last over of the day.

37.2Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Ouch, that must have hurt! Bowls it on a hard length and around off, the ball jags back in sharply and catches KS Bharat on his left elbow. The ball lobs over the slip cordon for two leg byes.

37.1Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Comes from over the wicket, on a good length, angling across, outside off, KS Bharat looks to punch it on the back foot but misses. The ball goes on the bounce towards the keeper.

36.6Scott Boland to KS Bharat, On an awkward length, angling in on off, KS Bharat gets surprised by the bounce and inward movement. Gets it off his gloves and ribs on the leg side for a single.

36.5Scott Boland to KS Bharat, Bowls it on a hard length, just outside off, KS Bharat pushes this one from the crease towards cover.

36.4Scott Boland to KS Bharat, Outside off, on a length, KS Bharat watchfully keeps it out.

36.3Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Short and wide outside off, Ajinkya Rahane hangs back and cuts it along the ground to deep point for a single.

36.2Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Back of a length, on off, Ajinkya Rahane punches it off the back foot but without much timing to cover.

36.1Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Continues to bowl it outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane is in no mood to play at this.

35.6Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Lands it full and wide outside off, KS Bharat free his arms and drives it straight to cover.

35.5Mitchell Starc to KS Bharat, Fullish delivery, angled across outside off, KS Bharat squeezes it through backward point. Opens his account with a couple of runs.

35.4Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Swinging into the pads, on a full length, Ajinkya Rahane clips it to deep square leg for a single.

35.3Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Slightly short and around off, Ajinkya Rahane shoulders arms once again.

35.2Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, In the channel outside off, from over the wicket, Ajinkya Rahane is happy to let the ball pass.

35.1Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Pitched up, angling across, outside off, Ajinkya Rahane gets on the front foot and pushes it to wide mid off.

34.6Nathan Lyon to KS Bharat, Around leg, on a fuller length, KS Bharat clips it a bit wide of mid on. A yes-no situation in the middle but Bharat sends Rahane back in time.

34.5Nathan Lyon to KS Bharat, Flighted this time, on off, KS Bharat gets on the front foot and pushes it back to the bowler.

34.4Nathan Lyon to KS Bharat, Bowls it short and on off, KS Bharat stays back and keeps it out.

KS Bharat strides out to the middle.

34.3Nathan Lyon to Ravindra Jadeja, OUT! TAKEN! The move to bring Nathan Lyon on has worked wonders for Australia! Floated up, turning away, outside off, Ravindra Jadeja plants his foot forward and has a feel for the delivery. The ball spins away and catches the outside edge of his bat. Steven Smith at first slip makes no mistake and Lyon is thrilled to bits. Ravindra Jadeja stands there in disbelief and starts to slowly trudge off. A huge blow for India as they are now five wickets down.

34.2Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Shorter around middle, Ajinkya Rahane goes back and nudges it to deep mid-wicket for a run.

34.1Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Tossed up, full around off, Ajinkya Rahane gets on the front foot and guides it to backward point.

33.6Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Pitched up again, on middle, Ravindra Jadeja drives it with a straight bat and gets it past the bowler for a couple of runs more.

33.5Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Fullish delivery down leg, Ravindra Jadeja looks to help it fine but misses.

33.4Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Streaky but Ravindra Jadeja ​​​​and India will take it! Bowls it full and outside off, Ravindra Jadeja gets on the front foot. Defends with soft hands and gets and outside edge that races past the diving Cameron Green at gully for a boundary.

33.3Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, On a good length, on middle, Ravindra Jadeja plants his foot across and clips it through mid-wicket for a couple of runs more.

33.2Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Smart batting! On a shortish length, around off, Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and uses the pace of the delivery. Opens the bat face and guides it past the slip cordon for a boundary.

33.1Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Angles it across, outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane takes a good stride forward and dabs it to towards third man for a single.

32.6Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Short and flatter, on middle, Ajinkya Rahane swivels in the crease and pulls it to deep square leg. Retains the strike with a single.

32.5Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Shorter and on off, Ajinkya Rahane gets behind the line and defends it towards silly point.

32.4Nathan Lyon to Ravindra Jadeja, Darted in on the pads, Ravindra Jadeja works it wide of mid-wicket and takes a single.

32.3Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Keeps it short and down leg, Ajinkya Rahane tucks it off his hips to fine leg for a single.

32.2Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Short again and around off, Ajinkya Rahane goes back and punches it to mid off.

32.1Nathan Lyon to Ajinkya Rahane, Comes into the attack and starts with a short delivery, turning in, on off, Ajinkya Rahane goes back and pushes it to mid off.

31.6Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Glorious! Lands it full and outside off, Ravindra Jadeja leans and drives it through covers.The fast outfield does the rest and Jadeja collects a boundary.

31.5Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Fuller this time, on middle, Ajinkya Rahane prods forward but gets an inside edge. The ball rolls to fine leg for a single. 50-run stand comes up between Rahane and Jadeja.

31.4Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Length delivery, around off, Ajinkya Rahane watchfully defends it on the off side.

31.3Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Lands it on middle, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane hangs back to defend. The ball jags back in sharply and catches Rahane on the thigh pad.

31.2Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls it on a hard length, outside off, Ajinkya Rahane shoulders arms and lets the ball pass.

31.1Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, On a good length, around off, Ajinkya Rahane dabs it from the crease towards backward point.

30.6Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Tailing in sharply, around off, on a length, Ravindra Jadeja gets an inside edge onto his front pad and the ball drops at his feet.

30.5Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Fuller this time, on middle, Ravindra Jadeja gets behind the line and defends it down the wicket.

30.4Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, On a length and angling in, on off, Ravindra Jadeja blocks it out on the off side.

30.3Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Four Byes! Wow, where has that come from? Bowls it on a hard length, shaping away, outside off, Ravindra Jadeja lets it go. The ball bounces sharply and goes over the keeper’s head for four byes.

30.2Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, From ’round the wicket, on off, on a good length, Ravindra Jadeja gets forward and keeps it out.

30.1Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Around off, on a hard length, Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and defends it towards cover.

29.6Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Angling in on middle, on a length, Ajinkya Rahane gets behind the line and defends it towards mid on.

29.5Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Brings his length back and bowls it on off, Ajinkya Rahane watchfully keeps it out on the off side.

29.4Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, FOUR! Exquisite by Ajinkya Rahane! Boland pitches it up, outside off, Ajinkya Rahane gets into a good position and drives it through covers for a boundary.

29.3Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Outside off, on a length, Ajinkya Rahane looks to drive it on the up but miscues it to mid off.

29.2Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Snorter! On a hard length and shaping away, outside off, Ajinkya Rahane has a feel for the ball and is lucky to not edge this one behind.

29.1Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, In the channel outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane plants his foot forward and keeps it out on the off side.

28.6Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Goes short once again, on middle, Ravindra Jadeja sways away and leaves the ball alone.

28.5Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls it into the wicket, around middle, Ajinkya Rahane gets on top of the bounce and pulls it to deep square leg for a single.

28.4Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Full and swinging away, wide outside off, Ajinkya Rahane gets lured into the drive but mishits it to mid off.

28.3Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, On a hard length, on middle, Ajinkya Rahane shapes to pull this one away but checks his shot. Pushes it to mid-wicket for a dot.

28.2Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls it fuller and outside off, Ajinkya Rahane shoulders arms and lets the ball pass.

Slight halt!

28.1Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Banged in short and at the batter by Cameron Green, Ajinkya Rahane takes his eyes off the ball as he goes for the pull. The ball thuds onto his helmet and lobs towards the slip cordon. It is taken at third slip and Australia go up in appeal. Pat Cummins has a word with his teammates but isn’t convinced enough to go for the review.

27.6Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, In dipper this time, on a good length, on middle, Ravindra Jadeja gets cramped for room and wears it on the front pad.

27.5Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, Goes full and outside off, swinging away, Ravindra Jadeja takes a good stride forward and leaves the ball alone.

27.4Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, Shaping in sharply, on middle and leg, on a good length, Ravindra Jadeja tries to clip it away. Gets an inside edge onto the front pad.

27.3Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, Pitches it up, outside off, shaping away, Ravindra Jadeja looks to drive down the ground but gets beaten on the outside edge.

27.2Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, SIX! Put away with ease! Strays on leg, on a length, Ravindra Jadeja uses his feet and nonchalantly flicks it over square leg for a maximum.

27.1Scott Boland to Ravindra Jadeja, Beauty! Angled in, on off, on a good length, the ball moves away after pitching and beats Ravindra Jadeja on the outside edge.

26.6Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Good-length delivery, around off, Ajinkya Rahane gets on the front foot and defends it on the off side.

26.5Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, On the off stump line, on a length, Ajinkya Rahane gets forward and blocks it out.

26.4Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls it outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane lets it pass.

26.3Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Angling down leg, on a length, Ravindra Jadeja turns this one down to fine leg for a single.

26.2Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Pulls his length back and bowls it outside off, Ravindra Jadeja is happy to let the ball go.

26.1Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Sheer timing! Green serves it full and on off, Ravindra Jadeja plants his foot forward and drives with a straight bat. Gets it wide of mid off for a boundary.

25.6Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Another one, just outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane watchfully leaves the ball alone.

25.5Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Keeps it on middle, on a hard length, Ajinkya Rahane gets behind the line and blocks it out.

25.4Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Going away, outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane drives away from the body and finds backward point.

25.3Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, Much tighter this time, around off, shaping in, Ajinkya Rahane covers his off stump and does not offer a shot.

25.2Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, In the channel outside off, on a good length, Ajinkya Rahane shoulders arms and lets it go.

25.1Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane,  Angling in, around leg, Ajinkya Rahane fends it off the back foot towards the leg side.

24.6Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Banged in short, angling in on middle, Ravindra Jadeja sways away and leaves the ball alone.

24.5Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Good running! Hard length, around off, Ravindra Jadeja dabs it in the vacant point region and comes back for the second run with ease.

24.4Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Goes short and moving away, outside off, Ravindra Jadeja gets his gloves out of the way and leaves the ball alone.

24.3Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length, around off, Ravindra Jadeja hangs back and punches it back towards the bowler.

24.2Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Another one on a good length, wide outside off, Ravindra Jadeja lets it go once again.

24.1Cameron Green to Ravindra Jadeja, Comes from ’round the wicket and bowls it on a good length, outside off, shaping away, Ravindra Jadeja is happy to let the ball go.

Drinks break! Australia continue to dominate the proceedings courtesy of disciplined bowling. Pat Cummins almost dismissed Ajinkya Rahane, only for it to be deemed a no ball. Nonetheless, they will be aiming to pick a couple of wickets more before Stumps. After the dismissal of Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane were starting to string a decent partnership but Kohli’s departure has pegged them back once again.  The onus is now on Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja to safely negotiate the remaining overs in the day’s play. Another exciting passage of play awaits us…

23.6Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Angled into the stumps on a fuller length. Ajinkya Rahane clips this towards mid-wicket.

23.5Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, On a yorker length this time and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane digs this out into the off side.

23.4Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Continues to bowl full and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane hits this firmly to the point fielder.

23.3Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Goes full and in line with the stumps. Ajinkya Rahane knocks this back past the bowler but they do not take a run.

23.2Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, On a good length and outside the off stump. Ajinkya Rahane gets his back hand off and blocks this towards cover.

23.1Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins Bowls this full and just outside the off pole. Ravindra Jadeja clips this to the left of mid on and sets off for a sharp single.

22.6Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Back to bowling on a good length and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane is happy to shoulder his arms once again and not play at this.

22.5Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Goes full and wide outside the off pole. Ajinkya Rahane gets a stride forward and leaves the ball alone.

22.4Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, On a good length this time and into the batter. Ravindra Jadeja pushes this to the left of mid on and sets off for a quick single.

22.3Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Easy pickings for Ravindra Jadeja and he accepts it gladly! Mitchell Starc bowls a full delivery onto the pads. Ravindra Jadeja gives the required treatment by flicking this towards deep backward square leg for four runs.

22.2Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowls this back of a length and outside the off pole. Ravindra Jadeja decides to leave this at the last moment.

22.1Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Ravindra Jadeja gets this on a driving length and helps himself to a boundary! This is bowled full and outside the off stump. Ravindra Jadeja punches this down to long off for four runs.

21.6Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls this back of a length and into the stumps. Ajinkya Rahane looks to defend this but gets surprised by the extra bounce. The ball hits him on his finger and goes into the off side. He yelps in pain and gets his gloves off immediately to check his finger.

Halt! Ajinkya Rahane has taken a blow on the index finger and requires medical attention. Out comes the physio with the magic spray and tapes Rahane’s finger. Rahane puts on a new pair of gloves and he is all set to resume.

21.6Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, OH MY WORD! Pat Cummins seemed to have got the wicket of Ajinkya Rahane here but he has overstepped and this will be a no ball! He delivers this on a good length and into the stumps. Ajinkya Rahane misses the line of the ball and gets trapped in the crease. The ball thuds against his back pad and Pat Cummins appeals instantly. The umpire raises his finger and Ajinkya Rahane goes upstairs for a review. He survives straight after the front foot check as Pat Cummins has done a cardinal crime in cricket. Ajinkya Rahane survives as he would have been a goner despite the review.

21.5Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Gets this closer to the off stump on a good length. Ajinkya Rahane defends this solidly towards point.

21.4Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, FOUR! That has been elegantly played to the boundary! This is a tad bit full as well and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane leans into the shot and strokes this towards deep cover-point for four runs.

21.3Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Slightly fuller this time and outside the off pole. Ajinkya Rahane gets his front foot forward and defends this into the pitch.

21.2Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Angles this in from outside off on a fullish length. Ajinkya Rahane punches this towards the mid on fielder.

21.1Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Pat Cummins delivers this on a good length and outside the off stump. Ajinkya Rahane shoulders his arms to this one. He seems to have changed his approach here after the dismissal of Virat Kohli.

20.6Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Angles this down leg on a fullish length. Ravindra Jadeja tries to flick this away and gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal from Mitchell Starc but the umpire remains unmoved as this is clearly going down leg.

20.5Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length and well outside the off pole. Ravindra Jadeja shows patience and leaves this one alone.

20.4Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Goes fuller this time and outside off. Ravindra Jadeja knocks this back towards the bolwer.

20.3Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, On a good length this time but well outside the off stump. Ravindra Jadeja is not interested in playing at this one.

20.2Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Back of a length this time and outside the off pole. Ravindra Jadeja stands tall and leaves this one alone.

20.1Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, FOUR! Ravindra Jadeja has played a confident-looking shot here! This is bowled full and into the pads. Ravindra Jadeja punches this straight down to long on for four runs.

19.6Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Onto the pads on a good length. Ravindra Jadeja is unable to tuck this away but goes off his thigh pads towards fine leg for a leg bye. He will keep strike.

19.5Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, On a good length once again but outside the off stump this time. Ravindra Jadeja defends this solidly towards cover.

19.5Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowls this on a good length and pitching outside the leg stump, Ravindra Jadeja looks to flick this away but misses and gets hit on the pads. A huge appeal by the bowler but the umpire remains unmoved. They do not take the review but would not have mattered as Pat Cummins has overstepped.

19.4Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Full this time and angled into the stumps. Ajinkya Rahane clips this down to deep backward square leg for a single.

19.3Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowls this one back of a length and outside the off stump. Ravindra Jadeja gets on his toes and dabs this into the off side for a quick run.

19.2Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Goes a tad bit fuller this time and outside the off pole. Ravindra Jadeja pushes this towards mid off.

19.1Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Continues to bowl on a good length and outside off. Ravindra Jadeja blocks this towards cover-point.

19.1Pat Cummins to Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins bowls this on a good length and in line with the stumps. Ravindra Jadeja tries to work this leg side and gets a leading edge once again through covers for a couple of runs. The bowler oversteps and it will be an extra run with the no ball.

18.6Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, A fraction fuller and outside the off stump. Ajinkya Rahane remains watchful and lets this go through to the keeper.

18.5Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, On a good length this time, and angled into the batter. Ravindra Jadeja looks to whip it leg side but gets a leading edge over gully for a single to open his account.

18.4Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Bowls this one on a good length and outside off. Ravindra Jadeja lets this one go through to the keeper.

18.3Mitchell Starc to Ravindra Jadeja, Goes full this time and outside the off stump. Ravindra Jadeja pushes at this and gets an inside edge towards backward square leg.

Ravindra Jadeja comes out to bat with India reeling at 71-4.

18.2Mitchell Starc to Virat Kohli, OUT! CAUGHT! What a jaffa of a delivery and Virat Kohli has no answer to this one! India lose a massive wicket and the Australians look absolutely thrilled! This is bowled back of a length and just outside off, angling away from the batter. Virat Kohli is surprised by the extra bounce and looks to fend this away. The ball hits the top of the blade near the handle and flies towards the slip cordon. Steven Smith times his jump perfectly at second slip and grabs the ball over his head. India lose their fourth wicket and are staring down a barrel now as Australia press their advantage even further.

18.1Mitchell Starc to Virat Kohli, Mitchell Starc bowls this full and outside off. Virat Kohli blocks this solidly towards mid off.

17.6Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, A bit of shape away but far from the batter outside off on a good length. Ajinkya Rahane shoulders his arms to this one as well.

17.5Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls this on a good length as well and outside the off pole. Ajinkya Rahane raises his arms and allows the keeper to catch the ball.

17.4Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Gets this one to nip back in sharply from a good length and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane gets beaten on his inside edge as the ball zips through to the keeper.

17.3Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, FOUR! Ajinkya Rahane slaps this away to the fence! Pat Cummins bangs this in short and outside the off stump. Ajinkya Rahane pulls this towards deep square leg and collects four runs.

Slight halt! The umpires are passing the ball through the rings and looks like they are opting for a ball change here. They have a new cherry in their hand that looks 17-18 overs old and Marnus Labuschagne begins to shine it up. We are all set to go now…

17.2Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Continues to bowl full but serves this wide outside off. Ajinkya Rahane knocks this straight to the point fielder.

17.1Pat Cummins to Ajinkya Rahane, Pat Cummins bowls this full and into the stumps. Ajinkya Rahane punches this back towards the bowler.

16.6Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls this one back of a length but strays onto the pads. Ajinkya Rahane tucks this towards deep backward square leg for a run and will retain strike.

16.5Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Attacks the stumps this time on a fuller length. Ajinkya Rahane watches this closely and pushes this towards mid off.

16.4Mitchell Starc to Ajinkya Rahane, Goes a tad bit fuller and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane is content with leaving this one alone.

16.3Mitchell Starc to Virat Kohli, Onto the pads on a good length. Virat Kohli flicks this uppishly towards deep backward square leg for a single.

16.2Mitchell Starc to Virat Kohli, Bowls this on a good length and angling away outside off. Virat Kohli shoulders his arms to this one.

16.1Mitchell Starc to Virat Kohli, FOUR! Mitchell Starc is welcomed to the bowling crease with a boundary! He bowls this full and outside the off stump. Virat Kohli gets a confident stride forward and plays this crisply towards wide long off for four runs.

15.6Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Back to bowling full and into the stumps. Ajinkya Rahane pushes this towards mid on.

15.5Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Bowls this on a good length and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane blocks this into the pitch on the off side.

15.4Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, On a good length this time and outside the off pole. Virat Kohli dabs this towards cover with soft hands and takes a sharp single.

15.3Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Continues to bowl full and outside off. Ajinkya Rahane strokes this towards deep cover and runs well to complete three runs.

15.2Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Goes fuller this time and outside the off stump. Ajinkya Rahane looks to defend but gets an inside edge onto his pads.

15.1Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, Angles this into the pads on a good length. Virat Kohli clips this down to deep backward square leg for a single.

15.1Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, NO BALL! Cameron Green bowls this slightly back of a length and outside the off stump. Virat Kohli raises his arms and leaves this one alone. The bowler has overstepped and it will be a no ball.

14.6Scott Boland to Ajinkya Rahane, FOUR! Ajinkya Rahane opens his account with some aggression! Scott Boland bowls this short and wide outside off. Ajinkya Rahane goes hard at the ball and upper cuts this towards third man for four runs.

14.5Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Strays onto the pads on a good length. Virat Kohli tucks this towards deep backward square leg for a single.

14.4Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Goes a fraction fuller and just outside the off pole. Virat Kohli punches it straight and dislodges the stumps at the non-striker’s end.

14.3Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Continues to bowl on a good length and outside off. Virat Kohli keeps his head still and demonstrates a perfect forward defense towards cover.

14.2Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, On a good length this time and outside the off stump. Virat Kohli gets his front foot forward and leaves the ball alone.

14.1Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Scott Boland goes full and outside off. Virat Kohli knocks this straight to the cover fielder.

13.6Cameron Green to Ajinkya Rahane, Cameron Green serves this one well outside the off pole on a good length. Ajinkya Rahane raises his arms high and allows the keeper to collect the ball.

Ajinkya Rahane walks out to bat.

13.5Cameron Green to Cheteshwar Pujara, OUT! BOWLED EM! Another Indian batter departs not offering a shot! Cameron Green is absolutely ecstatic as he gets a big wicket here and Australia are well and truly on top here! This is bowled in a good length and just outside the off stump. The ball jags back in a bit and Cheteshwar Pujara completely misjudges the line, He off pole is pegged back and India lose their third wicket. Just the start Australia wanted in this final session and India have loads of work to do here to save this game,

13.4Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, Bowls this one back of a length and into the batter. Virat Kohli tucks this down to fine leg and takes a run. 50 comes up for India.

13.3Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, Angles this into the stumps from outside off on a good length. Virat Kohli dabs this towards mid-wicket as he remains watchful.

13.2Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, Continues to bowl on a good length and outside the off stump. Virat Kohli gets a stride forward and leaves the ball alone.

13.1Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, Cameron Green bowls this on a good length and well outside off. Virat Kohli is happy to shoulder his arms to this one.

12.6Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, On a good length this time as well and closer to the off stump. Cheteshwar Pujara gets behind the line of the ball and blocks this towards mid on.

12.5Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, An absolute beauty! This is on a good length and outside the off pole. Cheteshwar Pujara looks to play at this but gets beaten by the lateral movement.

12.4Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Bangs this in short and going down leg, Cheteshwar Pujara allows this to go through to the keeper.

12.3Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Decides to bowl on a good length and into the stumps. Cheteshwar Pujara dabs this into the leg side.

12.2Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Continues to bowl full and just outside off. Cheteshwar Pujara clips this towards mid-wicket.

12.1Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Scott Boland delivers this full and outside the off stump. Cheteshwar Pujara gets close to the ball and blocks this back down the pitch.

11.6Cameron Green to Cheteshwar Pujara, Goes full this time and into the pads. Cheteshwar Pujara flicks this to the right if mid on and takes a single to retain strike.

11.5Cameron Green to Cheteshwar Pujara, FOUR! That has been punched away with disdain! Cameron Green bowls this back of a length and outside the off stump. Cheteshwar Pujara goes deep in the crease and knocks this towards deep point off the back foot for four runs,

11.4Cameron Green to Virat Kohli, Continues to bowl on a good length and outside the off pole. Virat Kohli taps this towards cover-point with soft hands and takes one more.

11.3Cameron Green to Cheteshwar Pujara, Delivers this outside the off stump on a good length. Cheteshwar Pujara guides this past backward point for a run.

11.2Cameron Green to Cheteshwar Pujara, Angles this into the stumps on a fullish length. Cheteshwar Pujara clips this towards the mid-wicket fielder.

11.1Cameron Green to Cheteshwar Pujara, Cameron Green starts with a fullish delivery outside off. Cheteshwar Pujara blocks this solidly towards cover.

It will be Cameron Green to operate from the other end.

10.6Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Delivers this one on a good length and outside off. Virat Kohli stands his ground and knocks this towards point.

10.5Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Bowls this one full and just outside the off stump. Virat Kohli misses out as he flicks this straight to the mid on fielder.

10.4Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Back to bowling on a good length and angled into the stumps. Cheteshwar Pujara clips this towards square leg for a single.

10.3Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, FOUR! Drifts into the pads and Cheteshwar Pujara takes this gladly to find the fence! This is bowled at the stumps on a fuller length. Cheteshwar Pujara flicks this towards deep mid-wicket for four runs.

10.2Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Goes fuller this time and outside the off pole. Cheteshwar Pujara dabs this watchfully towards cover.

10.1Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Scott Boland starts the session with a good delivery! Delivers this on a good length and outside the off stump. Cheteshwar Pujara feels for this one and gets beaten all ends up.

We are back for the post-Tea session on Day 2. The Australian players are seen in a huddle near the ropes. Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara make their way out to the centre and they are joined by the Australian players. Scott Boland will start the proceedings with the ball for Australia. Off we go…

… DAY 2, SESSION 3 …

There is plenty of enticing action coming our way in the last session of Day 2 and Australia have a great opportunity to stake their claim for a win in this game by taking a bunch of wickets early after the break. India need to believe that Day 2 and Day 3 are the best days to bat in England and will want to use these conditions to set up a fightback even though the Aussie pace bowlers have their tails up. Do join us at 8 pm IST (2.30 pm GMT) to find out how the post-Tea session plays out…

Australia would have liked Alex Carey and their skipper Pat Cummins to build a partnership and take them through to Tea but Carey was dismissed two runs short of his half-century ending a 51-run partnership. Nathan Lyon showed some resistance at the crease but saw his stumps shattered and Pat Cummins was the last wicket to fall in his quest to get some quick runs. They would have wanted to post a total above 500 and would be disappointed with their batting effort on Day 2 but what would have worried them more is that there was no help for their pace bowlers early on. They allowed the Indian batters to get off to a good start with some poor deliveries till Cummins produced a peach of a delivery to trap the Indian skipper in front of the stumps. Things got better for them when Scott Boland sent the other opener back to the shed by pegging his off pole back and now find themselves in a commanding position in the game.

SESSION SUMMARY – 84 runs, 22.3 overs, 5 wickets. Having done extremely well to bowl their opponents out, India have dug themselves into a hole with the bat! They went into the post-Lunch session with Australia batting on 422 for the loss of 7 wickets and did extremely well to bowl them out within the first hour with 47 runs added to the total. The pace bowlers were not able to get the breakthrough but the introduction of Ravindra Jadeja helped them break the eighth-wicket partnership that was building. Mohammed Siraj cleaned the tail up before drinks could be taken, following which the Indian openers came out to bat showing positive intent. Just when they seemed to be looking comfortable at the wicket, both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill were dismissed in consecutive overs to give the initiative back to the Australians. They now have an uphill task to climb to save this game and will be heavily reliant on Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli to do the bulk of the scoring as they still trail by 432 runs.

9.6Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Bowls it from wide of the crease and shaping away, outside off, Virat Kohli lets it go. That will be Tea on Day 2!

9.5Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Around off, on a length, Virat Kohli is solid in defense and drops it down the wicket.

9.4Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Goes full and outside off, Virat Kohli plants his foot forward and leaves the ball alone.

9.3Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Angling in on middle, on a hard length, at 139 kph, Virat Kohli keeps it out on the off side.

9.2Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Serves it a bit wide outside off, on a good length, Virat Kohli is happy to let the ball go.

9.1Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Bends his back and bangs it in short, on off, Virat Kohli sways away and lets it go.

8.6Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Back of a length and on off by Scott Boland, Cheteshwar Pujara hops and defends it out on the off side. Last over before Tea coming up.

8.5Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Touch fuller this time, around off, Cheteshwar Pujara gets on the front foot and turns it through mid-wicket for a couple of runs more.

8.4Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Keeps it just outside off, on a good length, Cheteshwar Pujara leaves the ball alone.

8.3Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Tailing in sharply, on middle, Cheteshwar Pujara defends it out towards mid on.

8.2Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, Again on the off stump line, on a good length, Cheteshwar Pujara gets it from the outer half of the bat towards gully.

8.1Scott Boland to Cheteshwar Pujara, On a length and outside off, Cheteshwar Pujara takes a good stride forward and defends it with soft hands. Gets an outside edge that goes on the bounce to gully.

7.6Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Good-length delivery, outside off, Virat Kohli watchfully leaves the ball alone.

7.5Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, EDGED AND FOUR! In the channel outside off, on a good length, Virat Kohli looks to leave this one but keeps his bat hanging. Gets an inside edge that sneaks past the stumps for a boundary.

7.4Pat Cummins to Virat Kohli, Angling in, on middle, on a good length, Virat Kohli gets behind the line and pushes it to mid on.

7.3Pat Cummins to Cheteshwar Pujara, Banged in short and at the batter, Cheteshwar Pujara fends it awkwardly towards fine leg for a single.

7.2Pat Cummins to Cheteshwar Pujara, Fuller this time and outside off, Cheteshwar Pujara is happy to let this one go through to the keeper.

7.1Pat Cummins to Cheteshwar Pujara, Serves it on a good length, on off, Cheteshwar Pujara blocks this one out towards the off side.

6.6Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Goes full now and on off, Virat Kohli gets on the front foot and defends it out towards the off side.

6.5Scott Boland to Virat Kohli, Bowls it outside off, the ball keeps a bit low but Virat Kohli gets his bat down in time and keeps it out.

Virat Kohli strides out to the middle with India in a spot of bother.

6.4Scott Boland to Shubman Gill, OUT! TIMBER! Scott Boland gets into the act now! India have now lost both openers in the space of three deliveries. Boland lands it around off, on a good length, the ball shapes back into the batter. A misjudgement in line by Shubman Gill as he opts not to offer a shot. Does not succeed in covering the off stump and the ball pegs back the off stump. Australia are right on top here reducing India to 30-2.

6.3Scott Boland to Shubman Gill, At the stumps, on a length, Shubman Gill gets behind the line and blocks it out.

6.2Scott Boland to Shubman Gill, Bowls it on a good length and outside off, Shubman Gill taps it towards backward point.

6.1Scott Boland to Shubman Gill, Full and around off by Scott Boland, Shubman Gill gets on the front foot and defends it down the wicket.

Cheteshwar Pujara makes his way out to the middle at number 3.

5.6Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, OUT! LBW! Pat Cummins gets the big fish! Rohit Sharma was looking good but has to depart now. Lands it on a good length, on middle, Rohit Sharma plants his foot forward to turn this one on the leg side. The ball nips back in sharply and traps Rohit right in front of the stumps. Australia go up in unison and the umpire has no hesitation in raising the finger. Rohit has a word with Gill and opts not to review. It did look plumb in real-time.

5.5Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, At the hips, Shubman Gill nudges it off the back foot towards deep square leg. Calls for two initially but has to settle for a single.

5.4Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, Back of a length, on off and middle, Shubman Gill keeps it out off the back foot.

5.3Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, FOUR! Shot of authority! Cummins bowls it into the wicket and on middle, Shubman Gill picks the length early and slaps it over mid on for a  boundary.

5.2Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, Angling around leg, on a back of a length, Shubman Gill pulls it off the front foot. Gets it off the upper part of the bat but in the vacant square leg region. Two runs taken.

5.1Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, In the channel outside off, on a good length, Shubman Gill goes back and defends it with a straight bat.

4.6Scott Boland to Rohit Sharma, Boland starts with a maiden! Shaping away, outside off, on a shortish length, Rohit Sharma hangs back and gets beaten on the outside edge as he tried to punch.

4.5Scott Boland to Rohit Sharma, Pitches it up, outside off, Rohit Sharma gets on the front foot and drives it straight to Marnus Labuschagne at mid off.

4.4Scott Boland to Rohit Sharma, A hint of away movement, on a good length, outside off, Rohit Sharma walks across and keeps it out on the off side.

4.3Scott Boland to Rohit Sharma, Fuller this time and outside off, Rohit Sharma takes a confident stride forward and blocks it out.

4.2Scott Boland to Rohit Sharma, Lands it on a hard length, Rohit Sharma punches it off the back foot without much timing towards cover.

India are off to a confident start here and they will be hoping to continue the good work. Australia are trying out their pace bowlers to see which one is able to get some help out of this wicket and they will want to break this partnership early.

4.1Scott Boland to Rohit Sharma, Comes into the attack and starts off in the channel outside off, shaping in, Rohit Sharma shoulders arms and lets it go.

3.6Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, Goes full does Pat Cummins, on off, Shubman Gill gets forward and pushes it back to the bowler.

3.5Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, Keeps it on a hard length, outside off, Shubman Gill gets surprised a bit by the extra bounce. Dabs it to backward point.

3.4Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, Serves it around off, on a length, Shubman Gill presents a straight bat and keeps it out.

3.3Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Leg bye! Angled at the hips, Rohit Sharma tries to glance it fine but misses. The ball comes off his thigh pad towards fine leg for a leg bye.

3.2Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Bowls it on a hard length, outside off, Rohit Sharma shoulders arms and leaves the ball alone.

3.1Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Cummins goes full and outside off, Rohit Sharma clips it nicely but straight to mid on.

2.6Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, At 146 kph, full and outside off, Rohit Sharma shuffles and works it towards cover-point. Retains the strike with a single. Another good over for India, 9 runs came off it.

2.5Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Angled across, outside off, on a full length, Rohit Sharma pushes it with soft hands towards cover for a couple of runs more.

2.4Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, FOUR! Rohit Sharma has come out with a positive approach here! Bowls a fullish delivery, way outside off, Rohit Sharma reaches out and squeezes it past backward point for four runs more.

2.3Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Lands it full this time and angling across, outside off, Rohit Sharma gets on the front foot and gets beaten on the outside edge.

2.2Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Angling down leg, on a good length, Rohit Sharma lets it go through to the keeper.

2.1Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Aerial but safe! Back of a length and at the batter, Rohit Sharma gets into an awkward position as he tried to pull. Gets a top edge that flies wide of Scott Boland at fine leg. He fumbles there but recovers well to save the boundary. Two runs taken.

1.6Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, Pulls his length back and bowls it on a hard length, on off, Shubman Gill stays back and dabs it wide of backward point for a couple of runs.

1.6Pat Cummins to Shubman Gill, NO BALL AND FOUR! A glorious way to get off the mark! Cummins pitches it up, outside off, Shubman Gill plants his foot forward and times the drive through covers. Opens his account with a boundary. Pat Cummins has overstepped here.

1.5Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Bowls it shorter now, on middle, Rohit Sharma swivels in the crease and pulls it towards fine leg. Mitchell Starc there runs to his left and keeps it to one.

1.4Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Much tighter this time, in the corridor of uncertainty, on a length, Rohit Sharma covers his off stump and lets it be.

1.3Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Back of a length, on off, Rohit Sharma hops and leaves the ball alone.

1.2Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, On middle, on a good length, Rohit Sharma tucks it off his hips but finds Travis Head at short leg.

1.1Pat Cummins to Rohit Sharma, Begins his spell, on a hard length, outside off, Rohit Sharma is happy to let this one go through to the keeper.

Pat Cummins, the skipper of Australia will share the attack and bowl from the other end.

0.6Mitchell Starc to Shubman Gill, In the channel outside off, on a full length, a hint of inward movement, Shubman Gill shoulders arms and leaves the ball alone.

0.5Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Slightly on the pads, on a length, Rohit Sharma tucks it towards fine leg for a single.

0.4Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Much fuller and tailing in, on off, Rohit Sharma watchfully defends this one towards mid on.

0.3Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Bowls it on a good length, around off, from over the wicket, Rohit Sharma takes a good stride forward and blocks it out.

0.2Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, FOUR! Rohit Sharma and India are underway! Starc keeps it short and on off, Rohit Sharma gets on his toes and pulls it through square leg for a boundary.

0.1Mitchell Starc to Rohit Sharma, Starts off with a bumper, at the batter, Rohit Sharma ducks and lets the ball go through to the keeper.