Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane put on 262 runs for the fourth wicket on Day 3 of the third Test between Australia and India. On a day that saw verbal volleys flying almost as frequently as the ball to the fence, Sunday made for a dramatic day of cricket. Monday is expected to be equally fierce. All the live updates from the fourth day's play:
(Scorecard | Complete coverage of India's tour to Australia )
Virat Kohli after scoring a century on Sunday.
© AFP
Virat Kohli was the hero on Sunday after he hit a career-best 169. That his knock was one that showcases his skills and talent was one thing. The other was that it came despite Australian bowlers using all sorts of banter to intimidate him - hardly finding any success. (They hate me, called me spoit brat, I love it: Virat Kohli)
Credit was also due to Ajinkya Rahane who scored 147 to once again show that being consistent is a gift that he has in abundance. He provided good support to his vice-captain. Such was the impact of the partnership that despite a flurry of a few wickets towards the end of Sunday, India had come close to the Australian total. (Kohli, Rahane's resolve impresses Gavaskar )
Indian tail will now hope to build on the platform provided by Kohli and Rahane. Unlike their Aussie counterparts, the Indian tailenders have not shown their batting skills so far on the tour. While most expect India to fall short of the Aussie 1st innings total, even a minor lead can be of psychological advantage.
The onus though would be on how they ball later in the day. Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar told NDTV on Sunday that Ravichandran Ashwin will be the man to watch out for. He also noted that troubling in-form Aussie batsman won't be easy but in their demise would be the true success of the bowling unit.
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