One of the most exciting Test matches in the history of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy concluded with a stunning 184-run victory for Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The thrilling five-day contest was witnessed by a record crowd and featured intense cricket, as Australia’s aggressive play met India’s determination to fight back from tough situations. This encounter highlighted the enduring appeal of Test cricket in an era dominated by T20 formats.
India’s remarkable 13-year unbeaten streak in the Boxing Day Test on Australian soil came to an end, with the hosts emerging victorious in the final session on the fifth day. Set a target of 330 runs to win, India faltered in their chase. Key players, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, failed to make an impact when their team needed them most. Despite solid efforts from Jasprit Bumrah and a defiant century from Nitish Kumar Reddy, India’s collective performance fell short.
This was also the first time since 2018 that Australia triumphed over India in a Test match on home soil. With a 2-1 series lead, Australia heads into the final Test in Sydney with an unassailable advantage.
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India’s resistance was led by Yashasvi Jaiswal, whose resilient knock of 84 off 208 balls nearly carried the team to safety. However, Australia wrapped up the match before the second new ball was taken. Washington Sundar, who had scored a fifty in the first innings, was left stranded on 5, unable to find any support from his teammates.
At lunch on Day 5, India found themselves at 33 for 3, with both Sharma and Kohli failing to make a significant contribution. However, Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant fought back with an unbeaten 78-run partnership, frustrating the Australian bowlers for nearly 28 overs. Just when it seemed India was headed for a draw, Pant threw his wicket away after the tea break, falling to part-time bowler Travis Head.
India collapsed from that point, losing three wickets for just nine runs, ultimately folding for 155. They battled for 79.1 overs but could not withstand the pressure in the final session. Seven wickets fell in the last hour, much to the disappointment of thousands of Indian fans at the MCG.
Captain Pat Cummins led his side with exceptional skill, taking three wickets, including the key dismissal of Jaiswal. His leadership was instrumental as Australia’s relentless approach paid off. Another standout was Scott Boland, who took three wickets, including those of Ravindra Jadeja and the lower-order batters. Nathan Lyon, too, made a significant impact with both bat and ball, contributing 41 runs and picking up three wickets in India’s second innings.
The difference in captaincy was also apparent. Cummins led with confidence and tactical precision, while Rohit Sharma’s lack of form and confidence continued to be a challenge for India throughout the series.
