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Tags: India tour for Australia 2024-25,
Australia vs India, 4th Test in Melbourne, 26-30 December 2024,
India,
Australia
Posted on: December 27, 2024
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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 session final The day witnessed remarkable individual performances, high drama and a charged atmosphere as the pendulum swung heavily in Australia’s favour.
Australia Pile on the Runs
Resuming the day on 331/3, Australia’s batsmen continued to pile on the runs with authority. Australian middle-order pioneer Steve Smith showed his class by bringing up his 34th Test century in the morning session. Smith’s fluid strokeplay kept the Indian bowlers on the back foot as he added crucial runs with the lower order.
Captain Pat Cummins also contributed significantly, falling agonizingly short of a deserved half-century as he was dismissed for 49. The Australians added 143 runs in just 27 overs before Lunch, taking their total to a grand total of 474. Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling effort, claiming four wickets, but the hosts had already laid a solid foundation.
India’s shaky start
In reply, India’s innings began with Rohit Sharma promoting himself at the opener 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 a mistimed shot.
KL Rahul, who has been India’s most reliable batsman in recent times, looked comfortable before being dismissed at tea. His wicket was a huge blow, leaving India precariously placed at 51/2 heading into the final session.
Kohli faces a hostile reception
The final session brought a moment of controversy and drama when Virat Kohli walked out to bat, only to be booed by a section of the crowd at the MCG. The unwelcome reception for the Indian talisman contrasted with the usual plaudits he commands on Australian soil, raising eyebrows in the cricketing fraternity.
Despite the pressure, Kohli showed his resilience but the road ahead remains challenging for India as they face a big deficit. With Cheteshwar Pujara for company, Kohli will have to lead the charge 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 starting to show signs of wear and tear, making it increasingly difficult to score runs. 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 key in the match. For India, it’s a chance to make a comeback, while Australia will aim to push for an early lead in this crucial Test.
