India vs Australia: Rain Interrupts Day 1 of the Gabba Test as Khawaja and McSweeney Stay Steady

Key Performances and Match Scorecard

Match Analysis

After winning their third consecutive toss, India chose to bowl first, a decision influenced by the overcast conditions and a grassy pitch. The recent history at the Gabba, where the team bowling first has won six out of the last seven Tests, might have further shaped their decision. However, the early stages of play showed that the conditions were tricky for the bowlers, and India’s pacers struggled to find their lengths.

Australia’s openers Khawaja and McSweeney were untroubled during the initial 5.3 overs before rain halted play. Khawaja, in particular, was quick to capitalize on anything slightly too short or straight, reaching 13 off 22 balls before the drizzle forced the players off the field.

Rain Delays and Australia’s Steady Start

The rain delay lasted about 30 minutes, and when play resumed, India’s bowlers started to make more inroads. They adjusted their lengths, becoming more aggressive, and found more movement in the air and off the pitch. Akash Deep, making his debut in place of Harshit Rana, was particularly impressive. The right-arm pacer swung the ball into McSweeney and also made the ball rise awkwardly, creating challenges for the Australian opener.

India’s bowlers had begun to build pressure, conceding only nine runs in 7.5 overs after the break, but the rain returned, bringing further delays. The rain persisted, and play was eventually called off at 4:13 pm after a series of interruptions, including breaks for lunch and tea.

Changes in India’s and Australia’s Lineups

Apart from Akash Deep, India made one more change to their side, bringing in Ravindra Jadeja for his first appearance of the series in place of R. Ashwin. This marked the third different spinner India had fielded in the first three Tests of the series. For Australia, Josh Hazlewood returned to the lineup after recovering from a side strain, replacing Scott Boland in the pace attack.

Looking Ahead to the India vs Australia Showdown

With just 13.2 overs completed on the rain-impacted day, the match hangs in balance, and both teams will be looking to capitalize on any opportunity as the weather clears. The ongoing India vs Australia contest promises to be an exciting battle, with both teams showing signs of intensity despite the interruptions.

Stay tuned for more updates as the India vs Australia Test match unfolds at the Gabba.