India faced a demoralizing defeat in the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 30, 2024, losing by 184 runs. Chasing a formidable target of 340, India crumbled to 155 all out in 79.1 overs, with both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli failing to make an impact.
India stumbles in the fourth test
Rohit Sharma, who has been struggling with form, managed only 9 runs off 40 balls, while Virat Kohli fared slightly better with 5 runs before being dismissed by Mitchell Starc. The Australian bowlers, led by Pat Cummins (3/28 in 18 overs) and Scott Boland (3/39 in 16 overs), exploited the weaknesses in the Indian batting lineup. Nathan Lyon also contributed with 2/37 in 20.1 overs, taking advantage of the variable bounce on the pitch.
The Indian batting lineup, apart from Yashasvi Jaiswal who scored a gritty 84, failed to put up a fight. Jaiswal’s dismissal, controversially adjudged out by the third umpire, was a turning point as India lost seven wickets for 34 runs in the final session. Rishabh Pant, who had concentrated for a long session, fell to a rank long hop from Travis Head after a vigil of 103 balls.
Incredible scenes in Melbourne as Australia clinch the fourth Test 🎉#WTC25 | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/5gqRYRTzLQ
— ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2024
Rohit Sharma, visibly dejected, admitted in the post-match presentation that the team had tried everything but failed to grab their chances. He acknowledged the tough fight put up by the Australian team and conceded that India could not live up to the challenge. The defeat leaves India trailing 2-1 in the series, with the final Test in Sydney now crucial for their chances of reaching the World Test Championship final.
The performance of Rohit and Kohli has come under scrutiny, with fans and experts questioning their form and future in the team. Rohit’s ultra-defensive approach and Kohli’s repeated dismissals outside the off-stump have been major concerns. The pressure is now on the Indian team to regroup and put up a stronger performance in the final Test to level the series.
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