Tags: India tour of Australia 2024-25,
Australia vs India, 4th Test at Melbourne, Dec 26-30, 2024,
India,
Australia
Published on: Dec 27, 2024
Scorecard
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India faced a tough outing on Day 2 of the ongoing Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), as Australia asserted their dominance early on before the visitors faltered with the bat in the final session. The day witnessed remarkable individual performances, high drama, and a charged atmosphere as the pendulum swung heavily in Australia’s favor.
Australia Pile on the Runs
Resuming the day at 331/3, Australia’s batters continued to pile on the runs with authority. Steve Smith, the stalwart of the Australian middle order, showcased his class by notching up his 34th Test century in the morning session. Smith’s fluent stroke play kept the Indian bowlers on the back foot, as he added crucial runs with the lower order.
Captain Pat Cummins, too, contributed significantly, falling agonizingly short of a well-deserved half-century when he was dismissed for 49. The Australians added 143 runs in just 27 overs before Lunch, taking their total to a commanding 474 all out. Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling effort, claiming four wickets, but the hosts had already laid a solid foundation.
India’s Wobbly Start
In response, India’s innings began with Rohit Sharma promoting himself to open alongside the in-form KL Rahul. However, the decision did not yield the desired result. Sharma’s stay at the crease was short-lived as he departed after scoring just three runs, undone by an ill-timed shot.
KL Rahul, who has been India’s most dependable batter in recent times, looked comfortable before being dismissed on the stroke of Tea. His wicket was a major blow, leaving India precariously placed at 51/2 heading into the final session.
Kohli Faces Hostile Reception
The final session brought a moment of controversy and drama as Virat Kohli walked out to bat, only to be met with boos from a section of the crowd at the MCG. The unwelcome reception for the Indian talisman was in stark contrast to the usual applause he commands on Australian soil, raising eyebrows across the cricketing fraternity.
Despite the pressure, Kohli showed glimpses of his resilience, but the road ahead remains challenging for India as they face a significant deficit. With Cheteshwar Pujara for company, Kohli will need to lead the fightback on Day 3.
Looking Ahead
India’s top order will need to step up if they are to make a match of this contest. The pitch at the MCG is beginning to show signs of wear, making run-scoring increasingly difficult. Australia, buoyed by their dominant performance so far, will look to capitalize on the situation and tighten their grip on the game.
The third day promises to be a pivotal one in the match. For India, it’s an opportunity to stage a comeback, while Australia will aim to push for an early advantage in this crucial Test.