Indian opener KL Rahul played a memorable knock during India’s first innings of the Brisbane Test. However, the right-handed batter’s unforgettable innings ended after the former Australian captain Steven Smith’s stunning catch. 

In reply to Australia’s first innings total of 445 runs in the Brisbane Test, under pressure India started the crucial fourth day at 51/4. Starting the day at 33 not out, Rahul was dropped on the first delivery of the day as Steven Smith dropped a sitter on the skipper Pat Cummins’ delivery. That drop cost the hosts heavily as Rahul played one of his memorable Test innings.

After the first delivery on the fourth day, Rahul looked solid with the bat. Although captain Rohit Sharma was out for 10 runs, Rahul had a 30-run partnership with the skipper. Then, Rahul had a crucial sixth-wicket partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. 

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KL Rahul completed his half-century in 85 balls

While the Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has brought fresh injury concerns, Rahul and Jadeja controlled most of the first session of the fourth day. Rahul completed his half-century in 85 balls. 

Rahul completely controlled the innings while Jadeja provided the perfect support to him. Sadly, Rahul was out as Smith took a blinder to deny Rahul’s special Test hundred.

Rahul scored 84 runs before stunning dismissal by the fielder Steven Smith

In the 43rd over of the innings, while the off-spinner Nathan Lyon was bowling, Rahul set up a tough catch for the only slip fielder Smith. While the reaction time was tiny, Smith dived to successfully grab that opportunity. The Indian right-handed batter scored 84 off 139 balls with the help of eight fours. 

WHAT A CATCH FROM STEVE SMITH!

Sweet redemption after dropping KL Rahul on the first ball of the day.#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/d7hHxvAsMd

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024

At lunch, India scored 167/6 as they were still 79 runs behind to avoid the follow-on. At the end of the first session, Jadeja was not out at 41 off 77 balls with four fours, and Nitish Kumar Reddy was not out at seven runs.