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Australia extended their lead to 333 runs

On December 29, 2024, during the fourth Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia extended their lead to 333 runs by the end of day four. Despite a formidable bowling performance by India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who secured figures of 4 for 56, Australia’s lower-order batsmen, notably Nathan Lyon (41* not out) and Scott Boland (10* not out), contributed significantly to the team’s total.

Earlier in the day, Marnus Labuschagne top-scored with 70 runs, and captain Pat Cummins added a valuable 41, helping Australia recover from mid-innings setbacks. India’s fielding lapses, including several dropped catches, allowed Australia to build a substantial lead.

India faces a challenging task on the final day, requiring a record chase on a deteriorating pitch to secure a victory and gain a 2-1 series advantage heading into the final Test in Sydney.

The fourth Test between India and Australia, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26 to 30, 2024, was a pivotal encounter in the closely contested series. Here’s a detailed summary of the match:

Day 1: Australia Off to a Solid Start

Australia won the toss and elected to bat first. Despite early wickets, Marnus Labuschagne (95) and Steve Smith (72) steadied the innings with a 150-run partnership. India’s bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj (3/78), fought back in the final session, restricting Australia to 312/6 at stumps.

Day 2: India Fights Back

Australia’s lower order added crucial runs, with Alex Carey scoring 48. The hosts were bowled out for 367. India’s innings started poorly, losing both openers early. However, Virat Kohli (89) and Shreyas Iyer (58) counter-attacked, taking India to 248/6 by the end of the day.

Day 3: Australia’s Bowlers Shine

India’s lower order collapsed on the third morning, managing only 275. Pat Cummins (4/42) and Nathan Lyon (3/65) were instrumental in wrapping up the innings. With a 92-run lead, Australia began their second innings cautiously. Usman Khawaja (67) and Travis Head (45) ensured Australia finished the day at 210/4, extending their lead to 302.

Day 4: Bumrah’s Brilliance

Jasprit Bumrah (4/56) led India’s charge, dismantling Australia’s middle and lower order. Despite his efforts, valuable contributions from Nathan Lyon (41*) and Pat Cummins (41) helped Australia set a daunting target of 334. India ended the day at 24/1, with Rohit Sharma dismissed early.

Day 5: A Thrilling Finish

India’s chase began with promise, as Shubman Gill (73) and Virat Kohli (56) built a solid partnership. However, Australia’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood (5/44), triggered a collapse in the middle order. India fell short by 57 runs, bowled out for 276.

Key Moments:

Marnus Labuschagne’s Consistency: His first-innings 95 set the tone for Australia’s strong start.
Bumrah’s Bowling Masterclass: He consistently troubled the Australian batsmen in both innings.
Kohli’s Fighting Spirit: His performances in both innings kept India in the game.
Hazlewood’s Match-Winning Spell: His decisive bowling on Day 5 sealed the victory for Australia.