Fri Dec 27 12:13:47 UTC 2024: ## Australia Dominates Day Two of Boxing Day Test Against India
**Melbourne, Australia (Dec 27, 2024)** – Australia continued its dominance over India on day two of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Resuming at 311/6, Australia declared its first innings at a commanding 474 runs thanks to a stellar 140 from Steve Smith and a crucial century partnership between Smith and Pat Cummins.
India’s response was shaky. Captain Rohit Sharma was dismissed early for 3, and despite a century partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (85) and Virat Kohli (36), India ended the day at 164/5, trailing Australia by a significant 310 runs. The Indian innings suffered a late collapse, losing three wickets for six runs. The loss of Jaiswal, who was unfortunately run out, and Kohli proved particularly damaging.
The day’s play saw several key moments. Jaiswal’s impressive 85-run knock was cut short by a run-out, while Kohli faced jeers from Australian fans but played a solid innings before falling to Scott Boland. Australia’s bowlers kept the pressure on, successfully breaking key partnerships.
Despite a strong start to their innings, India faces a significant uphill battle to avoid a substantial first innings deficit. The match continues tomorrow. A record-breaking 152,375 fans attended the first day’s play, setting a new attendance record for a cricket match in Australia.