Bumrah’s Brilliance Not Enough: India Faces Record Chase in Boxing Day Test
Patiala, 29 December (Sports Desk)
A thrilling fourth day at the MCG has set the stage for a dramatic finish to the Boxing Day Test between Australia and India. Despite a sensational spell from Jasprit Bumrah, Australia ended the day at 228/9, setting India a daunting target of 334 runs for victory.
Bumrah’s efforts brought India back into the match, but resilient batting from Marnus Labuschagne (70) and Pat Cummins (41), followed by a stubborn last-wicket partnership of 55 between Nathan Lyon (41*) and Scott Boland (10*), extended Australia’s lead.
India now faces a record run chase at the MCG if they are to secure a win and take a 2-1 lead in the series. The highest successful fourth-innings chase at this ground is 332/7, achieved by England against Australia in 1928.
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While India successfully chased down 328 at the Gabba on their previous tour to Australia, and with several players from that match featuring in the current XI, they will be confident of replicating that feat on a pitch that remains conducive to batting. However, Australia will also draw confidence from their successful final-day bowling performance against India at The Oval in last year’s ICC World Test Championship Final, where they dismissed India for 234 in the fourth innings.
Earlier in the day, Bumrah (4/56) ripped through the Australian top order, claiming four crucial wickets, including Sam Konstas (8), and bringing India back into the contest after they were dismissed for 369. Mohammed Siraj (3/66) also contributed with key dismissals, including Usman Khawaja (21). Australia collapsed to 91/6 before Labuschagne and Cummins steadied the innings, and the late resistance from Lyon and Boland pushed their lead beyond 330.
Beyond the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, this match is also crucial for both teams’ World Test Championship aspirations. Australia currently sits second in the WTC standings (58.89% of possible points), while India is third (55.88%). South Africa leads the table with 63.33% and is currently playing Pakistan in Centurion.
