Cricket Australia announced that 30,145 fans will receive full refunds after relentless rain curtailed the opening day of the third Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. Under Cricket Australia’s policy, fans are eligible for refunds if fewer than 15 overs are bowled, and with only 13.2 overs completed, the crowd was left disappointed but compensated.
India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bowl under overcast skies, aiming to exploit favorable bowling conditions. However, persistent thunderstorms disrupted play, initially causing a 30-minute delay during the sixth over. The rain returned after an early lunch, and play was eventually abandoned in the late afternoon.
Australia were 28 for no loss, with Usman Khawaja unbeaten on 19 and Nathan McSweeney on 4 at the close of play on Day 1. India’s bowlers, particularly Jasprit Bumrah, showed glimpses of promise, repeatedly beating Khawaja’s bat during his probing spell. But inconsistent lengths and a spongy Gabba pitch with limited movement offered limited returns for the pacers.
Despite the frustration on the field, the refund policy became a hot topic in the stands as fans kept an eye on whether the match would reach the critical 15-over threshold. When the rain dashed those hopes, the crowd reacted with good-natured humor, many heading to nearby pubs to continue their day. A unique sight outside the stadium was a stall selling and fitting turbans, contributing to the colourful atmosphere.
