In an electrifying contest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia secured a thrilling 184-run victory over India, taking a 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The match, witnessed by a record crowd of 373,691 spectators, was packed with drama, tension, and remarkable performances, culminating in one of Australia's most significant Test victories in recent years.
Australia’s bowlers, led by the indomitable Pat Cummins and hometown hero Scott Boland, dismantled India's resistance in the final session. India, who seemed poised to save the game, lost seven wickets for just 34 runs after tea. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s gritty 208-ball innings ended controversially via DRS, leaving India's tailenders with 21 overs to survive—a task too monumental against Australia’s relentless attack.
Cummins, who earned the Johnny Mullagh Medal for his all-round brilliance (six wickets and 90 runs), delivered when it mattered most, while Boland’s crucial breakthroughs further tilted the scales. Nathan Lyon claimed the final wicket, trapping Mohammed Siraj lbw, sparking euphoric celebrations for the Australians.
Earlier, India’s pursuit of 340 runs in 92 overs began cautiously. Despite a solid partnership between Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant, who added 88 runs, India faltered after Travis Head dismissed Pant with a short delivery. From 121 for 3, the visitors crumbled as Boland, Lyon, and Cummins unleashed their best. Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy fell in quick succession, leaving India exposed.
Jaiswal’s dismissal added a layer of controversy. The third umpire ruled he had gloved a pull shot down the leg side despite inconclusive evidence from Snicko, ending his valiant stand. With the new ball imminent, Australia didn’t need it, as Boland removed Jasprit Bumrah with an edge caught by Steven Smith, who also took a brilliant catch to dismiss Reddy. Lyon sealed the match, bowling Siraj with a delivery destined for the stumps.
This win not only puts Australia on the brink of securing a World Test Championship final berth but also demonstrates their resurgence after a crushing loss in the series opener in Perth. Meanwhile, India must win the final Test in Sydney to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, though their hopes of reaching the WTC final now rest on other results.
The MCG witnessed an unforgettable Test match, a testament to the enduring allure and unpredictability of cricket’s longest format.
Updated on 30th December, 2024 by MyFortune11 team