The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024 has been a riveting contest between cricketing giants India and Australia. As the series stands at 1-1, the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is pivotal. Day 3 has brought significant developments, with both teams striving for dominance.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has consistently delivered high-octane cricket, and the 2024 series is no exception. With the series level at 1-1, the fourth Test in Melbourne is crucial for both teams. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the first three Tests, followed by live updates from Day 3 of the fourth Test, offering readers in-depth insights into the performances, strategies, and turning points that have defined the series thus far.
1st Test Match: India vs Australia
- Dates: November 22 – 25, 2024
- Venue: Perth Stadium, Perth
- Winner: India
In the series opener, India showcased a dominant performance. Batting first, they posted a total of 150 runs in the first innings. In response, Australia’s batting lineup faltered, managing only 104 runs, giving India a crucial lead. In their second innings, India declared at 487/6, setting Australia a daunting target of 534 runs. Australia, under pressure, was bowled out for 238, handing India a comprehensive victory by 295 runs.
2nd Test Match: India vs Australia
- Dates: December 6 – 8, 2024
- Venue: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Winner: Australia.
The second Test, a day-night encounter, saw Australia bounce back emphatically. India, batting first, scored 180 runs. Australia responded with a solid 337, gaining a significant lead. In their second innings, India was bundled out for 175, setting Australia a modest target of 19 runs, which they achieved without losing a wicket, securing a 10-wicket victory.
3rd Test Match: India vs Australia
- Dates: December 14 – 18, 2024
- Venue: The Gabba, Brisbane
- Result: Drawn
The third Test was a testament to the resilience of both teams. Australia, batting first, posted a formidable 445 runs. India’s top order struggled, but the lower order, led by Ravindra Jadeja, Akash Deep, and Jasprit Bumrah, mounted a defiant stand, preventing a follow-on. Rain interruptions on the final day thwarted Australia’s push for victory, and the match concluded in a draw, leaving the series evenly poised at 1-1.
4th Test Match: India vs Australia
- Dates: December 26 – 30, 2024
- Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
Day 3 Live Updates:
As of the latest session on Day 3, the match has witnessed significant developments:
- Australia’s 1st Innings: The hosts amassed a commanding total of 474 runs, anchored by Steve Smith’s stellar century (140). Contributions from Pat Cummins (49) and Mitchell Starc (15) further solidified their position.
- India’s Response: The visitors faced early setbacks, with the top order failing to capitalize. Yashasvi Jaiswal stood out with a resilient 82, while Virat Kohli added 36 runs. However, a critical run-out and a late burst from Scott Boland, who claimed two key wickets, left India reeling at 164/5 by the end of Day 2.
- Day 3 Progress: The morning session saw India reaching 244/7 at lunch, with Nitish Kumar Reddy (40) and Washington Sundar (5) at the crease. The duo’s partnership is crucial as India trails by 230 runs and needs 31 more to avoid the follow-on.
- Rain Interruption: The weather has been unpredictable, with rain delays affecting play. The interruptions have added to the challenges faced by both teams, influencing strategies and momentum.
Chances of Winning the Test for Both Teams
Given the current scenario:
- Australia: With a substantial first-innings total and India’s batting lineup under pressure, Australia holds a favorable position. If they can enforce a follow-on or restrict India’s lead, they can dictate terms and push for a victory.
- India: The immediate objective for India is to avoid the follow-on by surpassing the follow-on mark. A resilient lower-order performance could help them reduce the deficit, and with favorable weather conditions, they might aim to set a challenging target for Australia in the second innings.
The outcome remains uncertain, with weather conditions and individual performances set to play pivotal roles in the coming sessions.
