Mon Dec 30 23:07:31 UTC 2024: ## Bumrah’s Brilliance Puts India in Command on Day 4 of Melbourne Test
**Melbourne, Australia** – Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional bowling performance spearheaded India’s dominance on day four of the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Bumrah, who took four wickets in the innings and eight in the match, reached the milestone of 200 Test wickets with an average under 20, a feat unmatched in cricketing history.
His devastating spell, consisting of eight separate bowling stints, left the Australian batting line-up reeling. While Bumrah’s efforts were initially hampered by dropped catches, particularly three by Yashasvi Jaiswal, the Indian team displayed improved fielding and a collective bowling effort. Mohammed Siraj, finding his rhythm after a period of inconsistency, provided crucial support by dismissing key batsmen Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith.
Despite Labuschagne and Cummins’ resilient partnership, which frustrated India for an extended period, Bumrah’s persistent threat forced Labuschagne to play defensively, protecting the captain from the Indian pace ace. Eventually, Labuschagne fell for 70. Bumrah’s final over of the day ended with a wicket, though it was called a no-ball.
Australia ended the day at 228/9, setting India a challenging but achievable target of 333 runs – exceeding any previous successful chase by India in Australia. The MCG witnessed a record-breaking Boxing Day Test attendance of 299,329 fans across the four days. The match is set for a thrilling conclusion on the final day, with India needing to navigate a challenging chase against a still dangerous Australian team.
First Piper 