In a thrilling conclusion to the fourth Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia clinched an 184-run victory over India, seizing a 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
Final Day Highlights:
- Australia’s Second Innings: Resuming at 234/10, Australia set India a formidable target of 340 runs. ESPN Cricinfo
- India’s Chase: Openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a cautious start, but the innings faltered after Sharma’s dismissal. Jaiswal’s resilient 63 and Rishabh Pant’s 28 offered resistance, yet the batting lineup crumbled in the final session, collapsing from 97/3 to 155 all out. Reuters
- Australian Bowling Prowess: Captain Pat Cummins and Scott Boland spearheaded the attack, each securing three wickets, while Nathan Lyon contributed two crucial dismissals. Reuters
Team Performance
| Team | 1st Innings | 2nd Innings | Top Scorer | Top Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | 391/9d | 234/10 | Travis Head (117) | Pat Cummins (4/55, 3/37) |
| India | 286/10 | 155/10 | Yashasvi Jaiswal (63) | Mohammed Siraj (4/72) |
Key Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player of the Match | Pat Cummins (Australia) |
| Record Attendance | 373,691 (Total over five days) |
| Target for India | 340 runs |
| Controversy | Disputed DRS call on Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal |
Bowling Performances
| Bowler | Team | Wickets in Match | Best Bowling Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pat Cummins | Australia | 7 | 4/55 in the 1st Innings |
| Scott Boland | Australia | 6 | 3/34 in the 2nd Innings |
| Nathan Lyon | Australia | 4 | 2/50 in the 2nd Innings |
| Mohammed Siraj | India | 4 | 4/72 in the 1st Innings |
Match Statistics
| Category | India | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Total Runs Scored | 441 | 625 |
| Total Wickets Lost | 20 | 19 |
| Extras Conceded | 20 | 18 |
Next Match
| Fixture | Details |
|---|---|
| 5th Test | India vs Australia, Sydney Cricket Ground, January 3-7, 2025 |
| Series Outcome | Australia needs a draw to win the series; India must win to level the series. |
Controversial Moments:
The match was not without controversy. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal involved a disputed Decision Review System (DRS) call, sparking debate over the technology’s accuracy and application.
Record-Breaking Attendance:
The MCG witnessed unprecedented crowds, with a total attendance of 373,691 throughout the match, surpassing records that stood since 1937. The final day alone attracted over 74,000 spectators, highlighting the series’ immense popularity and the competitive spirit between the two cricketing giants.
Implications for the Series:
This victory positions Australia on the brink of reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, needing only a draw in the upcoming Sydney Test to secure the series. The defeat complicates India’s path to the World Test Championship final, making a win in Sydney imperative to keep their hopes alive.
Post-Match Reflections:
Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed disappointment over missed opportunities and emphasized the need for a more balanced approach, particularly addressing Rishabh Pant’s aggressive yet sometimes reckless batting style.
Sharma also highlighted the importance of managing key bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, given his significant contributions throughout the series.
Looking Ahead:
As both teams prepare for the final Test in Sydney, Australia aims to maintain their momentum, while India seeks to regroup and address the vulnerabilities exposed in Melbourne. The series has captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide, promising an exciting climax in the forthcoming match.
Also Read: Pak vs Sa 1st Test – SA Won by 2 Wickets
For a visual recap of the day’s play, you can watch the highlights below:
