The final day of the gripping fourth Test match between India and Australia turned into a dramatic showdown at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The match concluded with Australia securing a decisive 184-run victory, marking a critical moment in the series as they now lead 2-1.
Morning Session: Australia Sets a Challenging Target
Australia began the day intending to extend their lead and set an imposing target. Cameron Green’s early dismissal by Mohammed Shami provided India with hope, but Steve Smith’s composed half-century anchored the innings. Ravindra Jadeja’s persistence paid off when he dismissed Smith, and Ravichandran Ashwin’s spin decimated the lower order. Australia was eventually bowled out for 215, setting India a target of 340 runs.
The Chase: India’s Resistance Falters
India’s response to the daunting target started cautiously. Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill attempted to see off the new ball under overcast conditions. However, Nathan Lyon’s brilliance with the ball removed Gill early. Skipper Virat Kohli joined Rohit, but the latter fell after a fluent start.
Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli steadied the innings, but the pressure of the chase mounted. Starc and Cummins’ fiery spells, coupled with Lyon’s precision, triggered a middle-order collapse. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s resilient 84 was the standout performance, but it wasn’t enough to avoid the inevitable. India’s innings folded for 155, handing Australia a comprehensive victory.
Key Performances: Heroes of the Day
Australia: Pat Cummins and Scott Boland led the charge with three wickets each, while Nathan Lyon claimed two crucial scalps.India: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s gritty knock was the lone highlight in an otherwise disappointing batting display.
Series Outlook
With this win, Australia reclaimed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and took a decisive 2-1 lead in the series. The final Test in Sydney now carries immense importance for India, who will look to level the series and salvage pride.
Conclusion
This Test match will be remembered as a classic battle of skill, strategy, and resilience. As the series heads to its final chapter, fans can only anticipate another thrilling encounter between these two cricketing giants.
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