India managed to escape with a crucial draw in the weather-affected third Test against Australia, after intermittent rain severely limited play on the fifth day. With the five-match series now tied at 1-1, the stage is set for a thrilling contest going into the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne. As the match ended early on the day, Indian veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket after what was an illustrious career for Team India. He will forever be in the history books of Indian cricket and ends his career as India's 2nd highest Test wicket taker as well.
India resumed the final day at 252 for nine, and they managed just 24 more balls before being bowled out for 260 in their first innings. With time running out after much of the morning session was washed out by rain, Australia’s batsmen came out with aggression but stumbled to 89 for seven in just 18 overs. The declaration came soon after, leaving India with 54 overs to chase a target of 275.
Bad light and more rain forced an early tea break with India at 8 for no loss in 2.1 overs, and the conditions worsened, preventing any further play. Despite the challenges, India would have fancied their chances to chase down 275, but the weather played a major role in their survival.
Jasprit Bumrah was again the standout bowler, taking 3/18 in the second innings, with excellent support from Mohammed Siraj (2/36) and Akash Deep (2/28). Australia's approach in their second innings was both brave and questionable, with reckless shots resulting in the fall of wickets. Nathan McSweeney (4) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) went after deliveries outside the off-stump, while Usman Khawaja (8) and Mitchell Marsh (2) were dismissed by good deliveries. Despite the collapses, Australia continued to play aggressively, with Pat Cummins hitting two sixes and as many fours before declaring.
The morning session was interrupted by lightning and rain, allowing only 24 balls to be bowled. After India were dismissed for 260, they trailed by 185 runs. Following this, severe weather warnings flashed at the Gabba, and play was suspended as fans and players took shelter.
With heavy rain impacting most of the game, the only uninterrupted day was day two, where Australia amassed 405 for seven, led by centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith. As the series moves to Melbourne, India faces key issues in both batting and bowling. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have struggled to find form, and Jasprit Bumrah has been the lone warrior in the bowling attack. India will need to address these concerns if they are to challenge Australia in the fourth Test at the MCG.
 "India vs Australia HIGHLIGHTS, 3rd Test Day 5: Match ended in a draw; series level 1-1")
