Mon Dec 30 11:01:18 UTC 2024: **India Suffers Crushing Defeat in Melbourne Test; Australia Wins by 184 Runs**
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – Australia secured a resounding victory over India in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning by 184 runs on Day 5 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The match, which saw record attendance at the MCG, concluded with India’s final pair unable to overcome Australia’s substantial lead.
Despite a valiant 84 from Yashasvi Jaiswal, India’s chase was ultimately thwarted by Australia’s disciplined bowling attack, spearheaded by Nathan Lyon. Jaiswal’s dismissal sparked controversy, with the umpire ruling him out LBW despite no edge showing on the Snicko meter. Other key wickets included Rishabh Pant (30) and Virat Kohli (5). India’s lower-order batting struggled to build any significant partnerships.
Australia’s bowlers consistently challenged the Indian batsmen, capitalizing on the pitch’s conditions. Lyon and Scott Boland were particularly effective, taking crucial wickets at pivotal moments. Jasprit Bumrah’s efforts with the ball earlier in the match, including a five-wicket haul, proved insufficient to prevent the loss.
This defeat puts India’s chances of reaching the World Test Championship final in jeopardy. The updated WTC points table will reflect this significant result. India’s overall Test record for 2024 stands at eight wins, six losses, and one draw from fifteen matches. Jaiswal’s impressive performance, however, did see him secure the second highest run total for India in Test matches during 2024.
First Piper 