Australia secured a commanding 184-run victory over India in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series and moving closer to defending their ICC World Test Championship crown. From a solid 112/3 at Tea, India crumbled to 155 all out, handing Australia a dramatic win at the MCG.
The win keeps Australia in second place on the WTC standings with 61.46 percentage points and 10 wins in 16 matches. South Africa remains at the top with 66.67 percentage points following a thrilling two-wicket win over Pakistan. India, at third with 52.78 points, now face an uphill battle to make it to the WTC final, relying on Sri Lanka to surpass Australia even if they secure a victory in the Sydney Test starting January 3.
Current WTC Standings
- South Africa: 66.67% (11 matches, 7 wins)
- Australia: 61.46% (16 matches, 10 wins)
- India: 52.78% (18 matches, 9 wins)
India’s inconsistent performances during the WTC cycle, including a 3-0 series loss at home to New Zealand, have hurt their chances. Despite a strong start in Australia with a 295-run victory in Perth, defeats in Adelaide and Melbourne have put their WTC final hopes in jeopardy.
Australia’s win highlights their resilience, with the Pat Cummins-led side dominating in crucial moments. The Sydney Test will now decide if Australia can seal their place in the Lord’s final in June.
