Mon Dec 30 00:50:00 UTC 2024: ## India Faces Mountainous Task in Melbourne After Another Day of Thrills
**Melbourne, Australia:** The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia is proving to be a nail-biting affair. After a shaky first innings, India’s bowlers put up a better fight on day four, but Australia still holds a commanding lead. At the close of play, Australia reached 228/9, with Nathan Lyon (41*) and Scott Boland (10*) at the crease. This leaves Australia with a 333-run lead heading into the final day.
Even if Australia declares soon, India will likely face a target in excess of 350 runs – a daunting task given the context. A win is crucial for India to keep their World Test Championship final hopes alive. However, the history of successful run chases at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) doesn’t bode well. The highest successful chase at the MCG is 332 runs, achieved 96 years ago. The highest successful chase in the 20th century at this venue was 231 runs, accomplished by Australia against England in 2013/14. Whether India can overcome this historical hurdle and achieve a miraculous victory will be the defining question of the final day.
First Piper 