Watch: Akash Deep's innocent banter with Travis Head in Gabba Test sparks tension
India pacer Akash Deep and Australia’s Travis Head shared a subtle but tense exchange on Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, adding another layer to an already dramatic Test match at the iconic Gabba stadium. The moment unfolded during a seemingly ordinary game but reflected the underlying tension between the two sides, particluarly after Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah’s last stitch brilliance on Day 4.
Akash Deep, who had earned attention for his gritty batting alongside Jasprit Bumrah to help India avoid the follow-on, found himself in focus for an offbeat moment. Facing Nathan Lyon, Akash played a defensive shot, with the ball sneaking between his knee and pad. Instead of handing the ball back, he casually dropped it at Travis Head’s feet at silly point. Head responded with a sharp stare, clearly unimpressed. Akash Deep quickly apologised, signalling it was unintentional.
AUS vs IND, 3rd Test Day 5: Live Updates
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The Akash-Bumrah 10th-wicket stand had been pivotal, countering Australia’s dominance late on Day 4. Bumrah’s audacious sixes off Pat Cummins and Akash Deep’s composed resistance frustrated the Australians. Together, they helped India close Day 4 at 193 runs behind Australia’s imposing 445 and protected the openers from facing a new ball spell under pressure.
Day 5 saw Australia adopt an aggressive approach, seeking to regain control after losing momentum. Their urgency paid off when Travis Head returned to dismiss Akash Deep in the 78th over, ending India’s innings at 260, still trailing by 185 runs. The weather intervened with rain and lightning halting play for an extended period, further complicating Australia’s plans. With limited time left, the visitors focused on setting a quick target for India, aiming to exploit the batting frailties exposed earlier in the match.
The Test match, filled with strategic shifts, individual brilliance, and moments of tension like the Akash Deep-Travis Head exchange, continues to keep fans and players on edge. As the final hours unfold, both sides are vying for a defining performance to seal the game.
