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'Funny Things Can Happen…,' Ajinkya Rahane Cautions Australia Ahead Of Day 4 Of WTC Final

image-liovi9v9Shardul Thakur and Ajinkya Rahane on Day 3 (Twitter)

Team India made a comeback of sorts, and still find themselves miles behind Australia by stumps on Day 3 of the WTC final. Ajinkya Rahane unfurled the innings of the day, as the cricketer roared with a sublime 89 in his comeback Test, and formed a defiant 109-run stand with Shardul Thakur.

His fighting knock extended India’s total to 296, after they were reduced to 152-6 within the opening over of Day 3. While the effort seems praiseworthy, Australia ended up with a huge 173-run first innings lead, and stretched the same near the 300-run mark by stumps.

After an enthralling day of action at The Oval, Rahane expressed his delight over the bowler’s effort, as they claimed four Australian wickets, including that of both openers cheaply. The batting veteran also acknowledged Australia’s commanding stance in the game, and asserted the importance of a good opening hour on Day 4 for Team India.

Ajinkya Rahane happy with India’s Day 3 performance

Ajinkya Rahane was struck on his finger earlier on Day 3 during his 89-run knock. The cricketer spoke about the blow to his finger, and expressed his delight over the bowler’s performance. He said:

“Painful but quite manageable (blow to his finger). Don't think it'll affect batting. Happy with the way I batted. Had a good today. We were looking to get 320-330 but overall we had a good day. Bowling wise we bowled well. Everyone chipped in,"

The 35-year-old also admitted that the Australian team is ahead in the match, and claimed that Team India will be playing session-by-session going ahead. Rahane further emphasised the importance of a good opening hour on Day 4 for Team India, considering they are already trailing Pat Cummins and co. by 296 runs.

“Australia slightly ahead in the game. For us it's important to be in the moment, play session by session. First one hour will be crucial tomorrow. We know funny things can happen.”

The legendary batter praised Ravindra Jadeja for his late breakthroughs, and claimed that footmarks on the pitch helped the veteran spinner.

“Jadeja bowled really well, footmarks helped him against the left-hander. Still feel wicket will help seam bowlers.”