Indian Innings Ends at 400; Massive 223 Run 1st Innings Lead Against Aussies

Nagpur: India took massive 223-run first innings lead by posting 400 against Australia on the third day of the opening Test in Nagpur on Saturday. Axar Patel hit a resolute 84 while Mohammed Shami smashed an entertaining 37.

Axar and Shami’s 52-run ninth-wicket stand helped India outbat Australia on a track that the visiting media alleged to be “doctored”. The pitch continues to be a slow turner.

India resumed the third day of the test match at 321 for seven. Ravindra Jadeja (70) and Patel were at the crease. Lunch was taken when the Indian innings ended for 400.

Adding 50-plus runs in just over an hour (65 minutes) Shami was laudable and Patel on his part gave Shami the bulk of the strike.

Once Shami was dismissed, Patel decided to attack. His and India’s innings ended when he was bowled by rival skipper Pat Cummins.

Brief Scores:

Australia 1st innings: 177 all out in 63.5 overs.

India 1st innings: 400 all out in 139.3 overs (Rohit Sharma 120, Axar Patel 84, Ravindra Jadeja 70; Todd Murphy 7/124).