Series: India tour of Australia, 2024-25
Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
The final day of the riveting fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground presents an intriguing equation: India need 340 runs to win in 92 overs, with all 10 wickets in hand.
India wrapped up Australia’s second innings in just 10 balls this morning, thanks to Jasprit Bumrah’s brilliance. Bumrah, who has been India’s standout bowler throughout the match, took only four deliveries to claim the last wicket of Scott Boland, sealing Australia’s innings at 234. This leaves India with a full day to either chase down the target or bat out the overs to save the match.
The Chase Begins
India’s openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma have begun cautiously, facing a testing spell from Australia’s pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. The Indian team reached 16/0 in 8.3 overs, with Jaiswal and Sharma carefully negotiating the new ball.
Current Scorecard:
| Batter | R | B | 4s | 6s | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | 8 | 29 | 1 | 0 | 27.59 |
| Rohit Sharma | 4 | 22 | 0 | 0 | 18.18 |
| Bowler | O | M | R | W | ECO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Starc | 4.3 | 1 | 9 | 0 | 2.00 |
| Scott Boland | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
India now needs 324 runs in 83.3 overs, with plenty of time left in the day.
Key Factors to Watch Out For
- India’s Approach: With a target that requires a run rate of just over 3.69, India needs to balance aggression and caution. The first session could set the tone for the rest of the day.
- Australia’s Bowling Attack: The hosts will rely on their pace trio and Nathan Lyon to exploit the conditions and put pressure on the Indian batters.
- Batting Depth: India will bank on their middle order, including Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant, to play match-defining roles.
- Pitch Conditions: The MCG pitch has shown signs of wear and tear, making survival tricky against spin and reverse swing.
A Test of Intent and Character
This final day is set to test both teams’ resolve and strategy. For India, a win here would not only level the series but also cement their legacy as one of the best Test teams. For Australia, it’s an opportunity to seal a series victory at home.
As the match unfolds, all eyes will be on India’s batters and their approach to this challenging yet achievable target. Will they go for glory or settle for safety? The drama is set to unfold at the historic MCG.
