IND vs AUS: Day 4 of the India vs Australia Test started with a bang as Steve Smith dropped a straightforward catch off KL Rahul’s edge on the very first ball. Pat Cummins, steaming in with a forward short leg, three slips, and a gully in place, produced a back-of-length delivery in the channel that climbed sharply.
Watch: Steve Smith drops KL Rahul
Rahul, caught off-guard by the extra bounce, fended at it, only to edge it straight to Smith at the second slip. The chance was routine by Smith’s lofty standards, but it popped out of his hands. It was a massive let-off for India, as Rahul—overnight unbeaten with Rohit Sharma—looked vulnerable early. Smith’s drop could be a pivotal moment in the Test, with India looking to build on their position.
More on IND vs AUS
Josh Hazlewood sidelined due to injury?
Adding to Australia’s concerns, pacer Josh Hazlewood was absent from the field at the start of play. Wicketkeeper Josh Inglis replaced him in the field, raising speculation about Hazlewood’s fitness. The bowler, returning from a side strain that ruled him out of the Adelaide Test, had bowled five overs on Day 3 and participated in warm-ups earlier. However, his absence from the field could indicate lingering discomfort.
