In a dramatic conclusion to the 4th Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia secured an 184-run victory over India, powered by incisive bowling spells from Pat Cummins and Scott Boland. The win not only solidified Australia’s dominance in the series but also highlighted the resilience of the Indian batting lineup, particularly Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant, who mounted fierce resistance before ultimately succumbing to the relentless Australian attack.
Early Strikes and First Session Drama
The day began with Australia firmly in control, having set India a formidable target of 340, far surpassing the record for the highest successful Test run chase at the MCG. India’s openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal walked out to bat with cautious intent, well aware of the steep challenge ahead.
Rohit Sharma’s innings, though composed, was short-lived. After displaying remarkable concentration against the likes of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, Rohit fell victim to Cummins’ precise delivery for just nine runs off 40 balls. KL Rahul followed in the same over, leaving India reeling with two quick losses. Jaiswal, however, stood firm, demonstrating exceptional temperament and technique as he saw off the first session.
Afternoon Resistance: Pant and Jaiswal Hold Firm
The second session belonged to India, as Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant formed a critical partnership, ensuring no further wickets fell before Tea. Pant, known for his aggressive style, adopted a more measured approach, anchoring the innings alongside Jaiswal. The pair frustrated the Australian bowlers, successfully negotiating Cummins, Boland, and Nathan Lyon.
Jaiswal, meanwhile, grew in confidence and even took the attack to Lyon, narrowly escaping dismissal in one eventful over. His determination paid off as he continued to accumulate runs steadily. By the end of the second session, India sat at 130 for 3, keeping the chase alive and Australia on edge.
Collapse in the Final Session
The third session, however, saw the tide turn decisively in Australia’s favor. Pant’s remarkable innings, which had inspired hope of a famous Indian victory, ended disappointingly. Attempting an expansive shot against Travis Head, Pant was caught in the deep, halting an 88-run partnership that had spanned 197 balls.
Jaiswal continued to battle on, bringing India within striking distance of hope. However, his heroic 84-run innings off 208 balls ended controversially when he attempted a hook shot off Cummins, only to be caught. His departure left India’s tail exposed, with Washington Sundar the last recognized batter.
Australia’s bowlers swiftly wrapped up the remaining wickets. Boland dismissed Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy in quick succession, while Nathan Lyon’s off-spin proved too much for the lower order. Cummins claimed three wickets, Boland matched his captain’s haul, and Lyon chipped in with two, sealing India’s fate.
Final Moments and Reflections
India’s innings ended at 155, well short of the 340-run target. Australia’s comprehensive performance on Day 5 underscored its dominance in both bowling and strategic execution. Pat Cummins’ leadership was pivotal, and Boland’s relentless line and length continued to trouble the Indian batsmen throughout the match.
For India, Jaiswal’s grit and Pant’s spirited resistance were the standout performances. Despite the defeat, their tenacity will be remembered as a highlight of the match. The result, however, leaves India with much to ponder as they head into the next fixture, trailing in the series and searching for a response to Australia’s formidable form.
Key Takeaways:
- Pat Cummins and Scott Boland led Australia’s charge with three wickets each.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s 84 off 208 balls stood out as a valiant effort.
- Rishabh Pant and Jaiswal’s 88-run partnership frustrated Australia before collapsing in the final session.
- Australia’s bowling attack remained clinical, dismantling India’s middle and lower order to claim victory by 184 runs.
With this win, Australia further cements its reputation as one of the toughest teams to beat at home, while India will look to regroup and find answers in the upcoming matches.
