Australia Posts 474 in First Innings, Puts Pressure on Team India
Melbourne Cricket Ground: Australia has laid down a formidable challenge for Team India in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground Stadium. On Day 2, Australia was bowled out for a towering total of 474 runs in their first innings, leaving India with a daunting task to avoid the follow-on and keep their hopes alive for the World Test Championship (WTC) finals.
India’s Struggles Begin
By the second session of Day 2, India’s response stood at 51/2, with KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal holding the fort. The dismissal of Rohit Sharma early in the innings has added to the team’s woes. The Indian batting lineup will now be tested against a potent Australian bowling attack on a pitch that, while favoring batsmen, is beginning to show signs of wear.
Australia’s Dominance with the Bat
The Australian innings was highlighted by a stellar century from Steve Smith, who scored 140 runs off 197 balls, marking his second consecutive ton in the series. Contributions from Marnus Labuschagne (72), Sam Konstas (60), and Usman Khawaja (52) solidified the visitors’ commanding position. Captain Pat Cummins narrowly missed a half-century, falling for 49 off 63 deliveries.
Indian Bowlers Fight Back
Despite the challenging conditions, India’s bowlers worked hard to limit Australia. Jasprit Bumrah led the attack with an impressive 4-wicket haul, supported by Ravindra Jadeja, who claimed 3 wickets. Akashdeep added two wickets to his tally, while Washington Sundar chipped in with one dismissal.
World Test Championship Stakes
This match holds immense significance for India, as a loss could jeopardize their qualification for the WTC finals. Australia, already assured of a spot in the finals, is using this match to assert dominance and maintain momentum.
Pitch Report and Challenges Ahead
The Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch has so far favored batsmen, but signs of variable bounce and turn are emerging. India’s top order will need to stabilize the innings and aim for a competitive total to counter Australia’s mammoth score.
Scorecard Update:
Australia 1st Innings: 474 all out
India 1st Innings: 52/2 (KL Rahul 24, Yashasvi Jaiswal 23*, Rohit Sharma 3)
Day 2, 2nd Session
