Thakur became the third visiting batsman to score three consecutive 50-plus scores at the iconic venue, matching the record previously set by the legendary Sir Don Bradman and former Australian cricketer Allan Border.
Despite Thakur’s valiant efforts, the Australian bowlers continued to dominate, leaving India with a significant challenge. Shardul Thakur’s Impressive Batting Streak:
Thakur’s counter-attacking knock of 51(109) in the World Test Championship final marked his third consecutive 50-plus score at The Oval, making him the third visiting batsman to achieve this milestone.
His previous scores at The Oval include 57(36) and 60(72) in matches played between 2021 and 2023.
The only other players to have achieved this record before Thakur were Sir Don Bradman, who achieved it from 1930-1934, and Allan Border, who accomplished the feat from 1985-1989.
Despite Thakur and Ajinkya Rahane’s partnership reigniting India’s hope of a comeback in the World Test Championship final, the Australian bowlers once again showcased their prowess.
Skipper Pat Cummins dismissed Rahane early in the second session, just as the Indian batsman was closing in on a century. Rahane fell for a well-played 89(129), with Cameron Green taking a stunning catch to send him back to the pavilion.
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Thakur, who had been providing vital contributions with the bat, edged a delivery from Cummins to wicketkeeper Alex Carey, ending his counter-attacking knock at 51(109).
Mohammed Shami briefly attacked the Australian pacers, hitting consecutive boundaries before being dismissed by the pacer for 13(11). With the fall of Shami’s wicket, India’s innings came to a close at 296 runs in 69.4 overs, trailing Australia by 173 runs.
In pursuit of India’s total, the Australian opening duo of David Warner and Usman Khawaja faced an early setback as Siraj claimed Warner’s wicket for just 1(8). Marnus Labuschagne and Khawaja then weathered the storm, successfully navigating the Indian bowlers and guiding Australia to a solid start of 23/1 in 11 overs.
Soon after, Usman Khawaja fell to Umesh Yadav but Australia remained in control as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne shared 62 runs partnership for the third wicket. Australia is now at 123/4, with Labuschagne and Cameron Green on crease, they have gained the lead of 296 runs.
The World Test Championship final has witnessed an enthralling battle between India and Australia at The Oval. Shardul Thakur’s remarkable achievement of scoring three consecutive 50-plus scores at the iconic venue puts him in esteemed company alongside cricketing legends Sir Don Bradman and Allan Border.
Despite Thakur’s efforts, the Australian bowlers, led by skipper Pat Cummins, have showcased their dominance, creating a challenging situation for the Indian team. As the match unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling moments and a fiercely contested finale.