Mon Dec 30 03:06:04 UTC 2024: **India Faces Steep Chase on Day 5 of Melbourne Test**

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – A thrilling final day is underway in the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test match between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). India, chasing a challenging 340 runs for victory, lost early wickets and faces a steep uphill battle.

Resuming on Day 5, Australia was bowled out for 234, setting a formidable target for the Indian team. Jasprit Bumrah led the Indian bowling attack, claiming his fifth wicket by dismissing Nathan Lyon for 41 runs. Scott Boland remained unbeaten on 15. Earlier, Marnus Labuschagne top-scored for Australia with 70.

India’s chase began poorly. Early wickets of Rohit Sharma (9), KL Rahul (0), and Virat Kohli (5) put India on the back foot. Pat Cummins was the chief destroyer, taking two quick wickets. At lunch, India was struggling at 33/3, still needing a massive 307 runs to win. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant will need to display incredible resilience if India is to avoid defeat. The match remains incredibly tight, with the outcome still uncertain. The day’s play continues with Australia having a clear advantage.

Read More