Australia Clinches 184-Run Victory Over India in Boxing Day Test
In a thrilling encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia secured a 184-run victory over India in the Boxing Day Test, taking a decisive 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the 2024-25 series. The match saw a significant turning point, as highlighted by former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who pointed to Rishabh Pant’s dismissal as the key moment that swung the match in Australia’s favor.
Rishabh Pant’s Crucial Dismissal
Shastri remarked during his post-match analysis, “The wicket of Rishabh Pant was crucial. Once India lost three wickets by lunchtime, their chances of winning were slim. The only hope was for a strong platform to be set, and when Pant got out after tea, it gave Australia the lift they needed.” Pant’s exit, caught off Travis Head’s part-time spin, shifted momentum firmly towards the hosts.
A Partnership That Gave Hope
Prior to Pant’s dismissal, India was buoyed by a promising 88-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal (84) and Pant (30) for the fourth wicket. However, the dismissal of both batsmen in quick succession dashed India’s hopes. Jaiswal’s controversial exit through a TV umpire review only compounded their troubles.
Australian Bowling Attack Shines
The Australian bowling attack, spearheaded by Pat Cummins (3/28) and Nathan Lyon (2/37), proved too formidable for the Indian batting lineup. Lyon claimed the final wicket of Mohammed Siraj, igniting jubilant celebrations among the 74,000-strong crowd.
Implications for the Series
This victory puts Australia in a prime position to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and secure a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s in 2025. Conversely, India faces a must-win scenario in the series finale in Sydney to keep their qualification hopes alive.
For more insights and updates on sports, don’t forget to visit Looffers.com for the latest deals and offers!
