Search
Close this search box.

Top Headlines

Melbourne Cricket Ground Witnesses Grit and Glory on Day 3 of 4th Test

PC - twitter/BCCI
The third day of the fourth Test match between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) unfolded with a mix of resilience, strategic play, and individual brilliance, keeping the series’ narrative grippingly close.

Morning Session

The day began under overcast skies, conditions that typically favor the bowlers. India, resuming their innings at 164/5, faced an uphill task with the Australian bowlers looking to exploit any assistance from the pitch. The morning session saw India lose two key wickets, with Rishabh Pant falling to Scott Boland for 28, caught by Nathan Lyon, a dismissal that underscored Australia’s control in the session. However, the Indian lower order showed resilience, managing to add 80 runs for the loss of those two wickets. The session ended with India at 244/7, with hopes pinned on the middle and lower order to stabilize the innings.

Afternoon Session

Post-lunch, the narrative shifted as Nitish Kumar Reddy, playing with an assured footwork and mature head, began to anchor the innings. His partnership with Washington Sundar was pivotal, turning the tide in India’s favor as they not only survived but started to dictate terms. Reddy, in particular, was the star of the session, reaching his maiden Test century in 171 balls, a feat celebrated by fans and teammates alike. His innings was a blend of defensive solidity and timely aggression, particularly against the Australian spinners. The pair not only ensured India avoided the follow-on but also set up an intriguing battle for the remainder of the day.

Evening Session

The final session of day three was characterized by aggressive Australian bowling and some resolute Indian batting. Reddy’s century was followed by a quick fall of wickets, with Jasprit Bumrah dismissed for a duck, caught by Usman Khawaja off Pat Cummins, showcasing the pressure Australia was still exerting. However, the day ended with India at 358/9, thanks to Reddy’s unbeaten knock and a fighting fifty from Washington Sundar. The scores suggested a game still very much in balance, with Australia holding a significant lead but India showcasing their depth and fighting spirit.

Key Takeaways

  • Nitish Kumar Reddy’s Century: His unbeaten 105 was not just a personal milestone but a defining moment in the match, helping India recover from a precarious position to post a competitive total.
  • Australian Bowling: While the Australian bowlers, particularly Cummins and Boland, were effective in taking wickets, they were challenged by the Indian lower order’s determination.
  • Match Situation: With Australia still leading by 116 runs, the fourth day promises to be crucial, with both teams looking to assert dominance. The weather forecast suggests clear conditions, setting the stage for a potentially decisive day.
  • Crowd and Ambiance: The MCG was packed, with the attendance breaking records for a third-day crowd, reflecting the high stakes and excitement surrounding this Test match.

 

As the match heads into day four, the narrative is set for a thrilling continuation, with both teams having moments to cherish and challenges to overcome. This Test match, part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, continues to showcase the essence of Test cricket – endurance, strategy, and the spirit of competition.

Click here for Complete ICC Champions Trophy Schedule

Also Read:

Tanush Kotian: The New Spin Maestro in Indian Cricket