On December 27, 2024, during the second day of the fourth Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia strengthened their position with a commanding performance.

Australia’s First Innings

Resuming at 311 for six, Australia extended their total to 474 runs. Steve Smith was instrumental, scoring a remarkable 140 runs, marking his 34th Test century. He received support from Pat Cummins, who contributed 49 runs, and Mitchell Starc, who added 15. Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling attack, securing four wickets.
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India’s Response

In reply, India faced early setbacks, with captain Rohit Sharma dismissed for just 3 runs, continuing his recent struggles. A promising 102-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) provided some stability. However, a miscommunication led to Jaiswal’s unfortunate run-out. Subsequently, Scott Boland’s late burst claimed crucial wickets, including that of Kohli, reducing India to 164 for five by the end of the day. India trails by 310 runs and needs an additional 111 runs to avoid the follow-on.
THE TIMES

Key Highlights

Steve Smith’s Century: Smith’s 140 reinforced his status as a formidable batsman against India, anchoring Australia’s substantial total.

Indian Top-Order Woes: Rohit Sharma’s early dismissal and the subsequent batting collapse have put India under significant pressure.

Bowling Performances: Jasprit Bumrah’s four-wicket haul was a standout for India, while Scott Boland’s late wickets shifted momentum in Australia’s favor.

As the match progresses, India’s immediate objective will be to surpass the follow-on mark and build a competitive total to challenge Australia’s dominance.