The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 will see Australia and India battling for supremacy at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26, this much-anticipated Boxing Day Test carries immense significance as the series hangs in balance at 1-1. Both teams are acutely aware of what’s at stake – the series lead and crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings. After three gripping matches, the stage is set for a contest that could determine the series’ fate and leave a lasting impression on their campaigns.
Australia vs India: Thrills and challenges
The series has been a rollercoaster of emotions and performances, showcasing the intense rivalry between the two cricketing powerhouses. India started on a high note, claiming a resounding 295-run victory in the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The win, achieved under the stand-in captaincy of Jasprit Bumrah, highlighted India’s dominance in all facets of the game. However, Australia were quick to respond. In the second Test at the Adelaide Oval, under lights and with the pink ball, the hosts delivered a commanding 10-wicket victory. Their bowlers dismantled India’s batting lineup, leveling the series emphatically.
The third Test in Brisbane seemed to be heading towards an Australian win as they posted a mammoth total of 445 in the first innings, thanks to centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith. India’s batting faltered once again, but a combination of lower-order resistance and persistent rain thwarted Australia’s hopes. The rain-affected draw left the series tied, setting the stage for a high-stakes fourth Test at the MCG.
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Strategic shift in India’s batting lineup: KL Rahul or Rohit Sharma as an opener?
India’s preparations for the Boxing Day Test include a major shuffle in their batting order. According to the multiple media reports, Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most successful openers in recent years, will potentially return to his preferred role at the top of the order. This decision might comes after his struggles in the middle order during the series. Despite managing only 152 runs at a poor average of 11.69 in seven matches this season, Rohit’s career as an opener remains stellar. He has amassed 2,685 runs in 64 innings as an opener, with nine centuries and eight fifties to his name. His ability to take on the new ball and dominate the powerplay could provide India the strong starts they need.
KL Rahul, who has been a consistent performer in this series with 235 runs at an average of 47.00, will move to the number three position. Rahul’s patient approach and solid technique make him an ideal candidate to anchor the innings after the loss of an early wicket. His promotion strengthens the middle order and offers flexibility to the Indian lineup in case of quick dismissals. This strategic change aim to counter Australia’s formidable bowling attack, led by Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, and establish a solid foundation for India’s innings.
Breaking – Rohit Sharma to open – KL to play at 3 in MCG
— रोहित जुगलान Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) December 25, 2024
The significance of the Boxing Day Test
The Boxing Day Test holds unparalleled importance for both teams. With the series tied at 1-1, a victory at the MCG would provide an unassailable lead ahead of the final Test. Beyond the immediate series implications, the match is also critical for the WTC, where every point is vital. India, aiming to regain their form after a rain-marred third Test, will look to overcome the challenges posed by Australia’s disciplined bowling and home advantage. Australia, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their performances in Adelaide and Brisbane, confident of continuing their momentum. However, they face the pressure of maintaining a record, as they have not beaten India at the MCG since 2011.
Also READ: Australia confirms their playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India; also declares Travis Head fit