India ended a rain-marred Day 4 in deep trouble, struggling at 51/4 in their pursuit of Australia’s imposing first-innings total of 445. The top-order crumbled, with none of the top six—except KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 33—managing to reach double digits.
At the other end, skipper Rohit Sharma, yet to get off the mark, survived a nervy moment during his brief six-ball stay as he and Rahul narrowly avoided a disastrous run-out just before the final rain break.
The incident occurred in the 16th over when Rahul nudged a Nathan Lyon delivery off his pads toward midwicket, looking for a quick single. Pat Cummins reacted swiftly, charging to his right inside the circle.
A loud exchange of “yes” and “no” followed in the middle, as confusion reigned between the two batters. Luckily for India, Cummins fumbled the ball, allowing them to complete the risky single.
In the aftermath, Rohit advised Rahul to avoid singles in that risky area, saying, *”KL, jane de udhar se.”* Rahul, however, responded calmly, asking Rohit to communicate earlier: *”Pehle hi boldo, main piche chala jaunga.”*
— DJ Sinha (@sdj374531) December 16, 2024
While the exchange lacked hostility, the tension was palpable given the high-pressure situation, and fans on social media quickly took notice, sparking plenty of discussion online.