Pat Cummins-led Australian side picked up a massive victory over Rohit Sharma's Indian cricket team in the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test which was being played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, on December 30 (Monday). The hosts have gained a 2-1 lead after winning the nail-biting Boxing Day Test. They will now head to the New Year Test in Sydney with a big lead and a chance to seal the spot in the World Test Championship Final against South Africa.
Steve Smith's century
Steve Smith's century in the first innings was extremely crucial in shaping this match for Australia. His 140-run knock along with fifties from Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, and Marnus Labuschagne powered the hosts to a massive total of 474 runs.
Nitish Reddy shines in MCG
Nitish Kumar Reddy was the rising hero for India in their first innings. After Jaiswal's 82-run knock most of the Indian batting failed to perform again. Then Reddy along with Washington Sundar joined a crucial 127-run partnership for the 8th wicket. Reddy also shattered countless records and helped India bring Australia's deficit down to 105 runs.
Boland and Lyon spoil India's fight back
India made a stunning comeback with the ball in the third innings and had Aussies on ropes with 91/6 but Marnus Labuschagne's fifty and Cummins' cameo which was followed by a game-changing stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland's final wicket stand helped Australia set big target in front of India.
Australia take 2-1 lead
Indian batters failed to perform once again. Apart from Yashasvi Jaiswal's 84 runs, everyone else succumbed to the pressure. However, his dismissal was controversial but his departure ensured that Aussies will be taking over the match. Australia eventually won the match by 184 runs and took a 2-1 lead.