IND vs AUS : How Can India Avoid Follow-On On Day 3 Of Melbourne Test?

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IND vs AUS, 4th Test: India finished Day 2 of the fourth Test at 164/5, trailing Australia by 310 runs on Friday.

Captain Rohit Sharma (3) failed to make an impact yet again, departing early. However, Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) provided stability with a solid partnership of 102 runs.

Jaiswal's innings came to an unfortunate end due to a mix-up with Kohli, resulting in a run-out. Shortly after, Kohli edged one to the keeper and was dismissed in the next over. Earlier in the day, Australia's innings concluded post-lunch, with Steve Smith achieving his 34th Test century to guide the hosts to a formidable total.

Starting from their overnight score of 311/6, the Australian side added 163 more runs before being bowled out. For India, Jasprit Bumrah (4/99) and Ravindra Jadeja (3/78) were the standout bowlers, claiming seven wickets collectively. Akash Deep also chipped in with two dismissals, finishing with figures of 2/94.

But now the big question arises, how many runs India have to score on Day 3 to avoid a follow-on? They successfully done that in the previous Test, but can they do it again?

How Can India Avoid Follow-On?

Australia set a commanding total of 474 runs in their first innings. If India are bowled out for 274 runs or fewer, the Aussies will have the option to enforce the follow-on. However, if India score 275 runs or more, the follow-on will no longer be an option, and Australia will need to bat again in their second innings. This regulation is commonly applied in Test cricket to encourage the batting team to begin their second innings right after their first if they fall short of a specific target in comparison to the opponent's total.

Ravindra Jadeja along with a determined partnership between Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah, ensured India managed to avoid the follow-on against Australia on a rain-affected Day 4 of the ongoing third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. The Aussies earlier scored 445 as India were bundled out for 260. In the Australian 2nd innings, the visitors made their presence felt by reducing Australia to 89/7, setting a target of 275 to score for the Rohit Sharma-led side. But India settled down for a draw.