A resilient performance from the lower-middle order and tailenders enabled India to avert a follow-on in the third Test against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. A crucial unbroken partnership of 39 runs between Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah for the 10th wicket allowed India to bring Australia's lead down to less than 200 runs. The Indian dressing room erupted in celebration when Akash struck a four to prevent the follow-on, followed by a six off Pat Cummins' delivery, further diminishing Australia's advantage. After Day 4, Akash remained not out on 27, while Bumrah contributed 10 runs, leaving India at 252 for nine, still trailing by 193 runs behind Australia's first innings total of 445.

Notable Moments When India Excelled Despite Following-On in Test Matches

Remarkable Contributions by Laxman, Dravid, and Harbhajan - Eden Gardens 2001 vs Australia

This match stands as one of the most legendary encounters in the annals of Indian cricket. Australia, batting first, amassed a formidable total of 445 runs in their initial innings. Subsequently, Glenn McGrath and his teammates effectively dismantled the Indian batting order, restricting them to a mere 171 runs. With this significant lead, Australia enforced the follow-on, and few anticipated that India could recover from such a setback. Nevertheless, VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) had different intentions, embarking on an extraordinary partnership that defied all expectations. Together, they constructed a remarkable 376-run partnership, which dramatically shifted the momentum of the match in favour of India. Following their impressive collaboration, spinner Harbhajan Singh played a pivotal role in securing India's victory, achieving a remarkable six-wicket haul in the second innings. His outstanding bowling performance was instrumental in India clinching a historic win by 171 runs.

Laxman's Heroic Performance - Mohali 2003 vs New Zealand

Laxman once again emerged as a pivotal figure for India when they were compelled to follow on; this time, he played a crucial role in securing a draw for the team. New Zealand amassed an impressive total of 630-6 declared, featuring centuries from Mark Richardson (145), Lou Vincent (106), Scott Styris (119), and Craig McMillan (100). In response, India, bolstered by centuries from Virender Sehwag (130) and Laxman (104), managed to score 424 runs but were unable to evade the follow-on, necessitating a second innings. Laxman demonstrated resilience by scoring an unbeaten 67 off 180 deliveries, helping to stave off defeat. Aakash Chopra also contributed to the recovery with a solid 52 off 160 balls, leading India to a final score of 136-4, thus concluding the match.

Gautam Gambhir: The Wall 2.0 - Napier 2009 vs. New Zealand

New Zealand scored 619 runs in their first innings, while India was bowled out for 305. Following a follow-on request from Daniel Vettori, the Indian team lost Virender Sehwag early in their second innings. Nevertheless, Gautam Gambhir remained resolute, delivering a remarkable performance. Gambhir amassed 137 runs, spending nearly 11 hours at the crease and facing 436 deliveries, during which he struck 18 boundaries for almost two days. Additionally, VVS Laxman contributed significantly with an unbeaten century, scoring 124 runs off 212 balls, as India managed to save the match by finishing their second innings at 476 for 4.

India's Last-Minute Avoidance of Follow-Up Efforts

During the 2023 WTC Final, India found itself in a situation reminiscent of the Gabba Test, where Australia scored 469 runs in their first innings, with Travis Head and Steve Smith both achieving centuries. In response, India's top-order struggled significantly; however, Ajinkya Rahane provided stability in the middle order with a commendable innings of 89 runs, supported by Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed 48 runs, and Shardul Thakur, who added 51 runs. India succeeded in avoiding the follow-on by accumulating 296 runs in their first innings, yet they could not avert defeat. Australia set an imposing target of 444 runs for India in the fourth innings, but the team could only muster 234 runs, resulting in their loss.

Read Also: Jadeja's Dismissal Signals Shift: Australia's Winning Hopes Diminish in Gabba Test

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