India's determination on the final day of the third Test against Australia in Brisbane has provided the team with a significant psychological advantage as they prepare for the demanding Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Former coach Ravi Shastri elaborated on India's impressive effort to evade the follow-on, particularly praising the resilience displayed by the tailenders during the first innings of the third Test.

With 36 runs required to avoid the follow-on, the steadfast partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep proved to be a pivotal moment. Their successful effort to surpass the follow-on threshold was met with exuberant celebrations in the dressing room, a moment that Shastri wholeheartedly endorsed.

"You should celebrate," Shastri remarked. "It took immense character from the last pair to secure those 35-36 runs. That celebration reflected their understanding of the significance of that achievement within the context of the series."

Shastri emphasized that the importance of this moment extended beyond merely avoiding the follow-on; it was about establishing the momentum for the subsequent stages of the match.

"Experiencing a follow-on is one challenge, but being 2-3 wickets down is another. Conversely, if you can disrupt the Australian top order, it is entirely warranted," Shastri pointed out, underscoring how crucial such instances can be for the team's overall momentum.

Shastri on Boxing Day Test

As the Boxing Day Test at the MCG approaches, Shastri asserts that India's performance in Brisbane, where they faced significant challenges, has instilled a sense of confidence as they enter this pivotal stage of the series.

"This will elevate the Indian team. In my view, the series is now evenly matched, and India may very well be in a position of influence," he remarked.

In considering the overall significance of the series, Shastri highlighted the potential long-term implications of this juncture.

"This is monumental. They would do anything for a 1-1 outcome," he stated. "The first Test takes place in Perth, followed by a day-night Test in Adelaide, and then the third Test in Brisbane. Any touring team would gladly accept a 1-1 scoreline because, by the time we reach Melbourne and Sydney, I believe India will be formidable."

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