The highly anticipated fourth Test between Australia and India began at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday, coinciding with the traditional match that commences on December 26th each year.
This match holds great significance for both teams, as a victory would greatly improve their chances of qualifying for the Final, scheduled to be held at Lord’s from 11th to 15th June 2025.
Winning the toss, Australian captain Pat Cummins elected to bat first. Australia made a cautious start against India’s formidable pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
Openers Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja provided a solid platform, compiling a steady 89-run partnership. However, the breakthrough came when Ravindra Jadeja trapped Konstas LBW, dismissing him for a well-played knock.
Usman Khawaja continued to anchor the innings, forging a crucial 65-run stand with Marnus Labuschagne. Khawaja eventually fell to Bumrah after making a patient 57, allowing India a glimmer of hope.
After drinks before the tea session, off-spinner Washington Sundar provided India with a much-needed breakthrough by taking the wicket of Labuschagne.
He made a valuable 72 runs, thus ending the dangerous 183-run partnership between him and the veteran Steve Smith.
Jasprit Bumrah then took two quick wickets, dismissing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh, who made 4 and 0 runs, respectively. These three quick wickets have brought India back into the match.
The only hurdle for India now is Steve Smith, who remains not out on 48 runs, holding the fort for Australia along with Alex Carey.
The Indian bowlers would like to wrap up the Australian innings as soon as possible to put pressure on the hosts.
Earlier, India’s bowlers struggled to break this key stand, which has been pivotal to Australia’s innings.
From India’s perspective, this Test is a must-win to stay in contention for the final at Lord’s.
Currently sitting third in the standings, any loss in this or the upcoming fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground would likely eliminate their chances of qualifying for the final.
In terms of team selection, Rohit Sharma is back as the opener for India after experimenting with a middle-order role in the second and third Tests.
His return to the top order will strengthen India’s batting lineup, but the pressure remains on India’s bowlers to dismantle the strong Australian partnership.
