Australia assistant coach Daniel Vettori revealed how intermittent rain breaks played a crucial role in easing the workload of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins during the challenging conditions after Josh Hazlewood was ruled out of the Gabba Test. Speaking after day four of the third Test, Vettori admitted that losing one of the world’s best bowlers disrupted Australia’s game plan but credited the weather for mitigating the potential strain on their pace attack.
“The weather allowed us to operate strategically,” Vettori said. “Mitch and Patty could come back refreshed on multiple occasions. If it had been a full 90 overs, it would’ve been much tougher to manage. Fortunately, we always have the luxury of bowling Nathan (Lyon), which eased some of the pressure.”
Vettori noted that while the conditions necessitated extended spells towards the end of the day, the duo managed their workload effectively. “There was a tricky situation at the end where the ball was incredibly soft and wet. We had to push them a bit longer to try and get that final wicket, but overall, it didn’t feel like we overextended them,” he added.
The rain-marred day also saw a resilient fightback from Indian tailenders Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, whose unbeaten 39-run partnership frustrated Australia’s attempts to enforce a follow-on. Vettori acknowledged the importance of the stand in shaping the course of the game.
“There was a desperation to get that final wicket,” Vettori admitted. “We thought we had a strong chance after dismissing (Ravindra) Jadeja, but Bumrah and Deep put on a real fighting partnership.”
With Indian batters, apart from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, struggling to find form, Bumrah and Akash Deep’s late resistance ensured the visitors avoided the follow-on. However, the time lost due to rain has significantly dimmed the chances of a decisive result.
Vettori also defended Australia’s decision not to declare earlier in their first innings, a move questioned by some as the match edges toward a likely draw. “The amount of time lost from the game has made it difficult to force a result. Our plan revolved around taking that final wicket to enforce the follow-on, but the delays and resilient Indian lower order have made things challenging,” he explained.
