The fourth day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) saw Jasprit Bumrah weave his magic with the ball, but it was the resilient Australian tail that stole the show, setting up an intriguing final day. Australia finished the day at 228 for 9, leading India by a commanding 333 runs.
Bumrah brings India back into the game in the Boxing Day Test
Bumrah was in top form, claiming 4 wickets for 53 runs in his 17 overs. His spell was a masterclass in precision, with immaculate length, awkward bounce, and late movement that left the Australian batsmen in complete tangle. He also reached a significant milestone, becoming the fastest Indian pacer to 200 Test wickets, achieving this feat at an incredible average of 19.56.
However, Bumrah’s efforts were nearly overshadowed by the courageous lower order of Australia. Pat Cummins (41 off 90 balls), Nathan Lyon (41 batting, 54 balls), and Scott Boland (10 batting, 65 balls) batted with determination, adding valuable runs and frustrating the Indian bowlers. The partnership between Cummins and Lyon, in particular, was crucial, as they put on a 55-run stand for the 10th wicket.
India’s skipper Rohit Sharma was visibly irritated as the Australian tail wagged, with the home team recovering from a precarious position of 156 for 8. The pitch, which has remained true throughout the match, now poses a significant challenge for the Indian batsmen on the final day.
Australia have lost 4-11 in 21 balls and Jasprit Bumrah has taken 3-3 in 11 balls! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/s8g9lSamrF
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024
A victory for India is not impossible, but it will require a stellar performance from the top order, especially from Rishabh Pant and a couple of senior batters who need to shake off the rust. The Australian bowlers will be looking to exploit any early nerves and put India under pressure. As the match heads into its final day, all results are possible, and cricket fans can look forward to an exciting finish at the MCG.
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