Fri Dec 27 08:25:43 UTC 2024: ## Australia Pile on Runs, Leaving India Facing Steep Mountain in Boxing Day Test
**Melbourne, Australia:** Australia dominated day two of the fourth Ashes Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), setting a daunting 474-run target for the visitors. Steve Smith anchored Australia’s innings with a masterful 140 off 197 balls, his 34th Test century, forming crucial partnerships with Pat Cummins (48) and Mitchell Starc (15). Jasprit Bumrah was India’s most effective bowler, taking 4 wickets for 99 runs in a relentless 28.4-over spell, but the other Indian bowlers struggled to contain the Australian batsmen.
India’s reply started disastrously when captain Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 3 in the second over, playing a poor pull shot. However, Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a bright spot for India, reaching his half-century in 81 balls before eventually falling for 82. A valuable partnership developed between Jaiswal and Virat Kohli, who looked significantly improved compared to previous innings, putting on a strong stand before stumps. However, late wickets, triggered by a run-out of Jaiswal, left India reeling at 156/4. Kohli’s dismissal, soon after Jaiswal’s run out, left India in a tough situation overnight. The day ended with India trailing by 318 runs.
The MCG witnessed a capacity crowd of over 87,000, enjoying a thrilling day of contrasting fortunes. While Australia’s batting prowess was on full display, India’s bowling attack struggled to create consistent pressure, particularly after Bumrah’s departure. The Indian batting line-up showed potential through Jaiswal and a revived Kohli but the late collapse left a mountain to climb. The remaining days of the match promise to be equally captivating.
First Piper 