Nitish Reddy, making the most of a crucial selection decision for the MCG Test, showcased impressive composure and determination on the third day. Walking in at 191/6, the allrounder built an unbeaten eighth-wicket partnership of 105 runs with Washington Sundar. This record stand played a pivotal role in lifting India out of a challenging situation. By Tea, which arrived early due to bad light, India had narrowed their first-innings deficit to 148 runs.
A Strong Partnership
The partnership between Nitish and Washington spanned 32.1 overs, demonstrating that the batting conditions at the MCG favored determined players. Washington contributed a solid 40 runs off 115 balls, providing steady support to Nitish, who struck his maiden Test half-century and is now 15 runs shy of his first century. Nitish’s 85 runs came at a brisk strike rate of 71.43, achieved without taking unnecessary risks.
Learning from past mistakes, Nitish avoided playing the ramp shot against short balls, a tactic that had led to his dismissal in Adelaide. Although he endured a painful blow to his glove from a short ball, he maintained his focus. Confidently playing drives against pacers and stepping out to attack spinner Nathan Lyon, Nitish kept his innings controlled. His only adventurous moment came when he attempted a reverse sweep against Scott Boland.
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A Tough Start to the Day
The morning session didn’t start well for India, with Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja departing early. Scott Boland dismissed Pant when he attempted an ambitious shuffle and lap shot, resulting in a top-edge caught by Lyon at third man. Jadeja, usually known for his steady temperament, fell to a smart delivery by Lyon, who used a quicker ball to trap him LBW.
At 221/7 in the 65th over, Australia appeared poised to secure a significant first-innings lead. However, Nitish and Washington’s partnership derailed those hopes, forcing Australia to take the second new ball in India’s innings for the first time in eight Tests.
The Current Standings
India ended the day at 326/7, with Nitish Reddy unbeaten on 85 and Washington Sundar steady at 40. They trail Australia’s first-innings total of 474 by 148 runs. Australia’s innings was headlined by Steve Smith’s 140 and Marnus Labuschagne’s 72, with Jasprit Bumrah standing out for India by claiming four wickets for 99 runs.
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Brief Scores
- India: 326/7 (Nitish Reddy 85*, Yashasvi Jaiswal 82; Scott Boland 3-49)
- Australia: 474 (Steve Smith 140, Marnus Labuschagne 72; Jasprit Bumrah 4-99)
This determined performance by the eighth-wicket pair has kept India’s hopes alive, setting the stage for an exciting fourth day.
