Rishabh Pant Reacts After Near Run-Out [Source: @anuragsinha1992/x]
The fourth Test match between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is delivering intense moments as both teams battle for dominance. On Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test, the action reached a boiling point when a mix-up between Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja nearly resulted in Pant’s run-out.
A Shaky Start to Day 3 vs AUS
India resumed their innings at 164/5, with Pant and Jadeja holding the fort. The duo aimed to reduce the massive deficit left by Australia's commanding total, as India still trailed by 275 runs. With half the Indian side back in the pavilion, the pressure was immense on the two batters to stabilize the innings and avoid further setbacks.
However, tension flared early in the day with a moment of miscommunication between Pant and Jadeja that could have proved costly.
In the 53rd over of India’s innings, Pat Cummins delivered a ball on a good length around off-stump. Pant gently pushed it towards the vacant area at silly mid-off and called for a quick single. Jadeja hesitated and sent Pant back mid-pitch.
Marnus Labuschagne, fielding at mid-off, had a clear shot at the stumps but missed the direct hit. The throw went wide, allowing Pant to dive back safely.
Surviving the scare, Pant appeared visibly annoyed and signaled his frustration toward Jadeja, saying, "Pehle mana karo na" (Tell me no earlier).
Earlier in the innings, a similar mix-up between well-set batters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli cost India dearly, handing the advantage to Australia.
India’s Fight to Avoid the Follow-On
India’s goal in this innings is clear: reach at least 275 runs to avoid the follow-on. At the time of writing, India are still 76 runs short of this target.