Mon Dec 30 01:20:00 UTC 2024: ## India Faces Uphill Battle in Melbourne Test After Australia’s Late Surge
**Melbourne, Australia:** Australia ended day four of the Melbourne Test with a commanding 333-run lead, leaving India facing a daunting task on the final day. The Australians’ late-innings resistance, with the last wicket adding a crucial 55 runs, further complicated India’s chase.
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar assessed the situation, suggesting that while a target around 340 runs might be achievable with a strong start, anything above 350 significantly increases the likelihood of a draw. He emphasized the importance of India retaining wickets before lunch, stating that losing more than one wicket before the break would put them in a precarious position. The final day promises a thrilling conclusion to a closely fought match.
First Piper 