Chapter 85

The final day of the Test match between Australia and India was filled with high drama and intense battles. Nitish Reddy and Wriddhiman Saha, who had fought valiantly to take India to the final day, continued their heroic efforts. Both batsmen showcased immense determination and resilience, even against the relentless barrage of bouncers that struck their bodies. Nitish and Saha reached their respective centuries, celebrating their hard-fought milestones. However, their dismissals in the third session, courtesy of the brilliant bowling from Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon, marked the turning point of the match. The Indian batting line-up collapsed quickly thereafter, leading to an eventual victory for Australia by an innings and 10 runs.

The final day began with India's hopes pinned on Nitish Reddy and Wriddhiman Saha to steer them out of trouble and secure a hard-fought draw. The Australian pacers, led by Mitchell Starc, unleashed a barrage of bouncers, testing the resilience of the Indian batsmen.

Harsha Bhogle: "Welcome back to the final day of this gripping Test match. Nitish Reddy and Wriddhiman Saha have shown great character so far, but they face a daunting task against the aggressive Australian bowling attack."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. The bouncers have been relentless, hitting the batsmen's bodies, and testing their resolve. Nitish and Saha need to show immense concentration and courage to survive."

Nitish and Saha displayed remarkable courage as they absorbed the fierce blows from the bouncers. They fought hard, defending resolutely and displaying excellent technique to counter the hostile bowling.

Harsha Bhogle: "Nitish and Saha are showing great bravery out there. They are taking blows to their bodies, but they refuse to give in. Their technique and determination are admirable."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. The way Nitish and Saha are handling the bouncers is commendable. They are not allowing the aggressive bowling to unsettle them and are playing with immense courage."

As the day progressed, Nitish and Saha's partnership blossomed, with both batsmen growing in confidence. They showed great discipline, leaving the good deliveries and capitalizing on any loose ones.

Harsha Bhogle: "Nitish and Saha have done a tremendous job in navigating through this difficult phase. Their shot selection has been excellent, and they are punishing the loose deliveries with precision."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. Nitish and Saha's shot selection has been exemplary. They are not allowing the pressure to dictate their strokes. Instead, they are waiting for the right opportunities to score."

Nitish and Saha's centuries came as a result of their unwavering determination and grit. Their celebrations were modest, acknowledging the immense effort they had put into their innings.

Harsha Bhogle: "What a moment for Nitish Reddy! He has battled against the odds and reached a well-deserved century. Look at his joy and relief. It's a testament to his character and determination."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Nitish has played a remarkable innings. His celebration shows his immense satisfaction and the hard work that has gone into this achievement."

In the third session, the match took a dramatic turn as Mitchell Starc unleashed a devastating inswinging yorker that shattered Nitish's defenses and sent him back to the pavilion.

Harsha Bhogle: "What a delivery from Mitchell Starc! A searing inswinging yorker that crashed into the stumps. Nitish Reddy's courageous innings has come to an end. It's a huge breakthrough for Australia."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. That yorker was unplayable. Nitish fought bravely, but Starc's brilliance got the better of him. He can be proud of his innings, though, as he has showcased immense talent and courage."

Shortly after Nitish's dismissal, Wriddhiman Saha mistimed a shot off Nathan Lyon, resulting in a catch, and his innings came to an end as well.

Harsha Bhogle: "Another breakthrough for Australia! Wriddhiman Saha's mistimed shot finds the fielder, and he departs after a resilient innings. The game is slipping away from India."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Saha fought hard, but Lyon's clever bowling got the better of him. It's a crucial wicket for Australia, and India's chances of saving the match are diminishing rapidly."

Following Nitish and Saha's dismissals, the Indian batting line-up collapsed quickly. The Australian bowlers seized the opportunity, dismantling the lower order with precision and speed.

Harsha Bhogle: "Australia's bowlers are running through the Indian batting line-up now. The end seems near for India. It's a remarkable comeback from the Australians after India's resilient fightback."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. Australia's bowlers have shown their class. They have taken wickets in quick succession, leaving India in tatters. It's been a disappointing end for India after the heroics of Nitish and Saha."

In the end, Australia claimed victory by an innings and 10 runs, sealing their dominance over the Indian team. While India fought hard, the brilliance of Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon proved to be decisive.

Harsha Bhogle: "Australia has secured a comprehensive victory here. They were clinical in their execution, and their bowlers were relentless. India fought bravely, but it wasn't enough to salvage the match."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon were exceptional for Australia. Their contributions proved to be the difference between the two sides. India can take heart from the resilience they showed, but they will be disappointed with the result."

Despite the loss, Nitish and Saha's centuries will be remembered as a testament to their determination and bravery in the face of adversity. Their partnership took the match to the final session, providing hope and entertainment to fans.

Harsha Bhogle: "Nitish Reddy and Wriddhiman Saha can hold their heads high. Their centuries were exceptional displays of courage and skill. They fought valiantly, taking the match to the final session."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Nitish and Saha's centuries were gems in a challenging situation. Their defiance against the aggressive bowling will be remembered for a long time. They can be proud of their efforts."

The Test match may have ended in disappointment for India, but Nitish and Saha's performances will be etched in the memories of cricket fans, showcasing the spirit and resilience of the Indian team.