Mon Dec 30 10:12:00 UTC 2024: ## Australia Cripples India’s World Test Championship Hopes with Boxing Day Victory

**Melbourne, Australia:** India’s chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final suffered a major setback after a crushing 184-run defeat to Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The loss leaves India’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread, requiring a near-miracle finish to the Border-Gavaskar series.

Australia’s commanding victory, their tenth of the WTC cycle, propelled them to 61.45% points, consolidating their second place in the standings. With South Africa already securing a final spot, Australia needs only a draw or win in the Sydney Test, starting January 3rd, to eliminate India.

India, currently third with 52.77%, must win the Sydney Test to level the series. Even then, their fate rests on Australia failing to win any matches in their upcoming Sri Lanka tour. A win in Sydney would raise India’s percentage to a maximum of 55.26%, still potentially short of qualification. Even if Australia draws both tests in Sri Lanka, they will progress to the final.

The Melbourne Test itself was a thrilling encounter, culminating in a dramatic Australian victory in the final hour. Pat Cummins was named Player of the Match for his crucial three wickets, while Nathan Lyon’s two wickets sealed the win. A spirited 88-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (88) and Rishabh Pant (30) briefly threatened an Indian comeback, but Australia’s bowling attack ultimately proved too strong. Australia now holds a 2-1 lead in the five-match series and is well-positioned to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The upcoming Sydney Test will be pivotal in determining both the series winner and India’s WTC destiny.

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