India’s hopes of salvaging a draw in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy crumbled on Day 5 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) after Rishabh Pant’s untimely dismissal triggered a catastrophic batting collapse. Australia seized the opportunity to stage a remarkable comeback, winning the match by 184 runs and taking a crucial 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Pant’s Frustrating Dismissal
Rishabh Pant, who had displayed grit and determination throughout the afternoon session, fell victim to a lapse in concentration. Facing the part-time spin of Travis Head, Pant attempted an ill-judged lofted shot, only to find Mitchell Marsh at long-on. The dismissal was a bitter pill to swallow for Indian fans, as Pant had been instrumental in holding the innings together until that point.
This wasn’t the first instance of Pant’s shot selection coming under scrutiny in the match. His dismissal in the first innings, which saw him play a rash shot, drew sharp criticism from former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar, who labeled it “stupid, stupid, stupid.”
India’s Collapse After Tea
Pant’s wicket at a crucial juncture provided Australia with an opening, and the hosts capitalized brilliantly. Ravindra Jadeja edged a delivery from Scott Boland, while Nitish Kumar Reddy, who scored a century in the first innings, managed only a single run before being dismissed. From a comfortable 121-3, India stumbled to 130-6 in no time.
The final blow came with the dismissal of Yashasvi Jaiswal, leaving India reeling at 140-7. Nathan Lyon wrapped up the innings, taking the last wicket of Mohammed Siraj to seal the match for Australia.
Australia’s Resurgence
The victory was a testament to Australia’s ability to exploit even the smallest openings. After Pant’s departure, they maintained relentless pressure, ensuring that India couldn’t recover. Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland were instrumental in dismantling India’s lower order, while the fielders held onto every opportunity to close out the game.
Looking Ahead
India will now head to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for the fifth Test with several questions to address, particularly their middle-order resilience. Rishabh Pant, who has yet to score a half-century in the series, will be under pressure to deliver.
For Australia, the win is a significant boost as they edge closer to regaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With just two matches remaining, India will need to regroup quickly if they hope to level the series and keep their hopes alive.
