Marnus Labuschagne’s solid half-century and resilient lower-order batting propelled Australia to a commanding 333-run lead at the conclusion of day four of the fourth Test in Melbourne. India now faces the daunting challenge of achieving a record chase to secure an unlikely victory.
The crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground applauded Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland as they made their way off the field, having formed an undefeated partnership of 55 runs for the last wicket. By stumps, Australia had reached 228 for nine, with Lyon unbeaten on 41 and Boland contributing 10 runs.
With both teams tied at 1-1 in the five-match series, India’s Jasprit Bumrah significantly impacted the match with a three-wicket surge before tea, all while 43,867 spectators watched on. Labuschagne scored 70 runs, and Australian captain Pat Cummins added 41, helping stabilize the team’s position with a 57-run partnership, before Boland and Lyon extended their frustration for the Indian side.
An unfortunate end to the day for India came when Bumrah dismissed Lyon in the final over due to a no-ball call. Historically, only one team has successfully chased more than 300 runs for victory at the MCG – England accomplished this in 1928 by chasing down 332 runs against Australia.
Australia’s tail-end resilience was notable, especially following a mid-order collapse where the team fell from 80 for two to 91 for six, losing four wickets for just 11 runs due to Bumrah’s lethal bowling. Mohammed Siraj initiated the downfall when he caught Steve Smith chasing a wide ball. Bumrah then claimed his 200th Test wicket by dismissing Travis Head, continuing his impressive streak by also taking out Mitchell Marsh and Alex Carey in quick succession.
Despite the tumult, Cummins showed remarkable composure, adding crucial runs alongside Mitchell Starc and Lyon, before getting bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. India also faced setbacks in the field, with several dropped catches that could have changed the match dynamics, including two significant chances from Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja.
India can count themselves fortunate to still be in contention, as they had started day three in a precarious position until Nitish Kumar Reddy’s resilient hundred, which ended on 114, provided some relief.
The impressive attendance at the MCG, totaling 299,329 for the Boxing Day Test, reflects the sport’s popularity and enhances the atmosphere as the match progresses towards a thrilling conclusion.
This match showcases the unpredictable nature of cricket, with both teams having their moments of excellence and struggle. As the final day approaches, fans can look forward to what could be an exhilarating finish, highlighting the spirit of competitive sportsmanship.
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