Australia secures a 184-run win over India at the MCG, taking a 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Melbourne [Australia], December 31: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri identified Rishabh Pant’s dismissal as the pivotal moment in Australia’s 184-run victory over India in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
In a thrilling finale on Day 5, Nathan Lyon dismissed Mohammed Siraj to seal the victory, sending a packed MCG crowd of over 74,000 fans into celebration mode. With this win, Australia leads the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series 2-1 and bolsters their chances of securing a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s in 2025.
Speaking on Star Sports, Ravi Shastri emphasized the significance of Pant’s wicket after tea on the final day:
“I think the turning point was the wicket of Rishabh Pant. They knew they couldn’t win the game by lunchtime once they lost three wickets. The only chance you have of winning is if there’s a platform set, exactly what Rohit said. And then, when Rishabh Pant got out after tea, that lifted the Australians. That was the opening they were looking for, and they made sure to capitalize on it.”
Key Moments from the Test Match:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (88) and Rishabh Pant (30) forged an 88-run partnership, keeping India’s hopes alive on Day 5.
- Travis Head (1/14) provided a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Pant, which shifted momentum towards Australia.
- Jaiswal’s controversial dismissal following a TV umpire decision further dented India’s chances.
- Pat Cummins (3/28) delivered a fiery spell before lunch, dismantling India’s middle order.
- Nathan Lyon (2/37) wrapped up the tail, ending one of the most intense Tests witnessed in recent history.
WTC Scenarios for India and Australia:
- Australia: With this win, Australia retains second place in the World Test Championship standings. A victory in any of their remaining Tests, including the Sydney match or the upcoming series in Sri Lanka, would solidify their spot in the WTC Final.
- India: To keep their WTC Final hopes alive, India must win the final Test in Sydney and hope Australia falters in their Sri Lankan campaign.
The Boxing Day Test showcased Australia’s resilience and clinical execution, led by Pat Cummins’ all-round brilliance and Steve Smith’s crucial century in the first innings.
As the series heads to the final Test in Sydney, cricket fans can expect another gripping encounter between two cricketing giants.
