Australia defeated India in the fourth Test, taking a 2-1 series lead after a dramatic final day. Pat Cummins and Scott Boland took three wickets each, while Nathan Lyon added two as India’s resistance crumbled. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had batted for 208 balls, was dismissed after attempting a hook shot, ending India’s hopes. Rishabh Pant, who had anchored India’s innings with Jaiswal, fell to Travis Head in an uncharacteristic manner early in the third session. Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy also went cheaply, leaving Washington Sundar as the last recognized batter.

In the second session, India had managed to lose no wickets, with Jaiswal continuing to play patiently while Pant provided crucial support. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul had both been dismissed in quick succession earlier in the day. India, chasing 340, faced a monumental task—surpassing the highest successful run chase at the MCG, set in 1928.

Australia had earlier been dismissed for 234, with India needing 340 to win. After India had started the day confidently, with Bumrah and Siraj taking key wickets to reduce Australia to 173-9, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland formed a surprising partnership, adding crucial runs to extend Australia’s lead. Their 57-run stand frustrated India as Australia closed at 234 all out, setting India an even tougher chase.

India now faces a challenging final day, with all three results still possible. The pressure is on Jaiswal, who dropped a catch earlier, and India’s top order to overcome Australia’s formidable total and secure a series draw or win.