Mon Dec 30 06:25:52 UTC 2024: ## Australia Sets India a Mountain to Climb in Thrilling MCG Test

**Melbourne, Australia:** A dramatic final day of the fourth Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) saw the hosts set India a challenging 340-run target to win, leaving all three results – a win, loss, or draw – still possible.

Jasprit Bumrah’s quick four-ball dismissal of Nathan Lyon ended Australia’s second innings at 234, following an incredible last-wicket stand between Lyon (41*) and Scott Boland that added crucial runs late on Day 4. India’s earlier collapse, which saw four wickets fall for just 11 runs, had initially left them optimistic of a more manageable chase.

India’s opening pair of Rohit Sharma (9) and KL Rahul (0) fell early to Pat Cummins in the same over, but Yashasvi Jaiswal displayed remarkable resilience. He anchored the innings, scoring a gritty 84 off 208 balls before eventually falling to Cummins attempting a hook shot.

Rishabh Pant (28), after a patient second session, threw his wicket away attempting a big hit against Travis Head, ending a crucial 88-run partnership with Jaiswal. Further collapses followed, with Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy falling quickly. With only Washington Sundar remaining as a recognised batter, India faced a daunting task late in the day.

The match concluded with India on 143/7 needing an improbable 197 runs from the remaining overs. While Jaiswal’s performance was lauded, India’s inability to build substantial partnerships proved costly, handing Australia the upper hand in a tense and unpredictable encounter. The match ended with Australia winning.

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