India fightback:-

In a thrilling WTC final at The Oval, India displayed immense resilience with a remarkable fightback against Australia. Led by Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur's explosive century partnership, India injected life into the game. However, Australia held its ground, maintaining a commanding position at the end of Day 3.

After bowling out India for 296, Australia ended the day at 123/4, extending their lead to a formidable 296 runs. The Australian pacers used their height advantage to trouble the Indian batsmen. Thakur endured painful blows to his forearm, while Rahane battled through finger injuries. Nevertheless, the duo launched a courageous counterattack against the dominant Australian bowling attack.

Despite Australia creating chances, slip fielding errors granted Thakur a lifeline. Rahane survived a review for leg-before-wicket. The seventh-wicket pair defied the odds, propelling India beyond 250 and forging a sensational century stand at an impressive strike rate of over 83 runs per 100 balls.

However, Australia tightened its grip in the second session, quickly wrapping up India's innings before reaching 23/1 at tea. Pat Cummins dismissed Rahane with a spectacular catch by Cameron Green. Thakur continued his heroics at The Oval, registering his third consecutive half-century. Yet, Australia's relentless attack paid off, establishing a commanding 173-run lead.

India's pace duo, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami unleashed a fiery onslaught with the new ball, causing trouble for the Australian top order. Siraj claimed the wicket of David Warner, while Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja faced anxious moments. Labuschagne even lost his bat on multiple occasions. However, the partnership remained unbroken.

In the third session, Khawaja fell early while trying to accelerate the scoring. Steve Smith and Labuschagne eased the pressure with well-timed boundaries, extending Australia's lead. As the day progressed, singles, twos, and threes came easily as Smith and Labuschagne built a steady partnership. Australia's lead surpassed 250, leaving the Indian bowlers deflated. However, Smith's aggressive approach resulted in a wicket off Ravindra Jadeja's delivery.

With Travis Head at the crease, India employed Siraj and Jadeja's combination. Head's departure provided another breakthrough, but Labuschagne and Green navigated the remaining overs unscathed.

While India's fightback was inspiring, Australia maintained its stronghold as the match heads toward an enthralling conclusion. The WTC final continues to captivate fans, promising more exhilarating moments on the Fourth day at The Oval.

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