KL Rahul Lauds “Lower-Order” After India Prevents Follow-On In Brisbane Test

December 17, 2024: KL Rahul’s praise for India’s lower-order contributions during the third Test against Australia in Brisbane came after a gritty fightback, with India battling hard to avoid a follow-on and keep their hopes alive in the match. Rahul, who played a key role with a vital half-century, expressed his appreciation for tail-enders Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, whose partnership was crucial in helping India reach 252/9 by the close of play on day four.

In the post-day press conference, Rahul highlighted how significant the lower-order contributions were in such a challenging situation. “It is very good to see when the lower order chips in and scores runs,” Rahul said. “That is something we discuss a lot in our meetings, and the bowlers work really hard on their batting as well. So it is really good to see that they could go there, build that little partnership, and avoid the follow-on.” His words reflected the team’s philosophy of getting everyone involved in contributing, regardless of their primary role.

Bumrah and Akash Deep’s 39-run partnership was not just about runs but about their resilience in facing Australia’s pace attack on a pitch offering considerable bounce. Rahul appreciated their composure and the heart they showed, particularly against the bouncers. “The last half-hour of their batting wasn’t just about the runs they scored but also their resilience in dealing with the bouncers,” he said. “On a pitch with a lot of pace and bounce, to defend, leave, and play some good shots was great to see.” This not only gave India a fighting chance but also boosted the team’s morale.

Rahul also acknowledged the importance of the rain interruptions that shortened the game. He mentioned that despite the breaks, which made the match more unpredictable, the team maintained their focus. Rahul noted that, while the rain delays were frustrating, they were part of the challenge, saying, “I think I got more tired running up and down from the dressing room than I did being in the middle. It was a challenge for both teams, stopping and starting again.”

Despite the interruptions, the resilience shown by India, especially from the tailenders, demonstrated a determined fight to stay in the contest. Rahul’s recognition of their contributions underscored the importance of a collective team effort in tough situations, a sentiment that resonated throughout India’s approach during the day.

Rahul’s leadership and experience, along with the tailenders’ gritty resistance, have given India a glimmer of hope heading into the final stages of the Test. The ability to avoid a follow-on against a dominant Australian side not only kept India in the game but also gave them a psychological edge, with the lower-order performance lifting the team’s spirits and providing valuable momentum.