Mon Dec 30 01:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Australia defeats India by 184 runs in Melbourne, takes 2-1 series lead
**Melbourne, Australia:** Australia clinched a convincing victory over India in the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), winning by 184 runs and taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Chasing a challenging 340-run target, India was bundled out for 155 on Day 5.
Yashasvi Jaiswal top-scored for India with a determined 84-run innings off 208 balls, but his dismissal sparked controversy. A contentious third umpire decision, showing no conclusive evidence on snickometer, led to his dismissal, prompting criticism from commentators. No other Indian batsman managed to cross the 30-run mark.
Earlier, Australia had posted a substantial 474 in their first innings, to which India responded with 369. Australia further strengthened their position in the second innings, scoring 234 runs, setting up a significant lead.
Nathan Lyon claimed the crucial wicket of Mohammed Siraj, ending India’s innings and securing Australia’s victory. Other key dismissals were those of Jasprit Bumrah (Scott Boland), and Rishabh Pant, whose poor shot selection contributed to India’s collapse. A series of controversial umpire decisions, particularly regarding LBW appeals, added to the drama of the final day’s play. The questionable decisions involving Jaiswal and Akashdeep also added to the tension and debate surrounding the match’s conclusion. The close and contentious finish left the series wide open going into the final Test.
First Piper 