28-Dec-2024 08:59 PM
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Melbourne, Dec 28 (Reporter) After his gritty batting display, Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar on Saturday exuded confidence about his side's chances in the remaining two days of the Boxing Day Test match against Australia.
“I still feel there's something for the bowlers in this wicket,” Sundar said during a spirited interview after draw of stumps on day three.
“If we can bowl in the right areas and take our chances, I’m sure we should be able to get them for 150. Day 5 will then be about executing the plan.”
Sundar also credited the Indian think tank, led by Head Coach Gautam Gambhir, for backing his abilities. “Gauti bhai and the support staff believed in me. That faith drives me to perform at this level. I’m just happy I could contribute,” he said.
India’s hopes of scripting a memorable Boxing Day Test win against Australia have been reignited, thanks to a valiant eighth-wicket stand between Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
The duo’s crucial 127-run partnership on Day 3 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground has left the match tantalisingly poised.
Resuming the day in a precarious position, India overcame early setbacks, including the dismissals of key players Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. By stumps, the visitors had clawed their way to 358, reducing Australia’s formidable first-innings lead to116 runs.
Nitish Kumar Reddy, playing only his second Test, showcased immense maturity with an unbeaten 105, his maiden Test century. Sundar, stepping in for Shubman Gill, chipped in with a vital 50, stabilising the innings and keeping India in the hunt.
While Sundar’s dismissal late in the final session was a blow, Reddy stood firm, blending composure with controlled aggression. Sundar heaped praise on the young batter: “Nitish’s hundred was unbelievable. He showed incredible mental strength and picked the right moments to attack. This is a knock people will talk about for a very long time...////...