Mon Dec 30 09:45:48 UTC 2024: ## Australia Clinches Border-Gavaskar Trophy Lead with 184-Run Victory Over India

**Melbourne, Australia** – Australia secured a commanding 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, defeating India by 184 runs in a thrilling final day of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Chasing a challenging 340-run target, India were bowled out for 155 in 79.1 overs, despite a valiant 84 from Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant (30) offered some resistance, batting through the second session to take India to 112/3. However, Pant’s dismissal triggered a collapse, with Pat Cummins (3 wickets) leading the Australian charge. Earlier, Australia resumed at 228/9 and were eventually dismissed for 234, thanks largely to Jasprit Bumrah’s impressive five-wicket haul (5/57).

The match saw a record-breaking attendance at the MCG, surpassing the previous high set in 1937. However, the result deals a significant blow to India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final. Their qualification now hinges on winning the upcoming Sydney Test and relying on Sri Lanka to win their series against Australia 2-0.

While Jaiswal’s fighting innings provided a brief glimmer of hope for India, the Australian bowlers proved too strong in the end. The victory marks a significant turnaround for Australia, who were previously trailing in the series.

Read More