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fourth test Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 will see Australia and India Compete for supremacy at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This much-anticipated Boxing Day Test is scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26, and holds great significance as the series sits at 1-1. Both teams are keenly aware of what’s at stake – the series lead and the ICC’s pivotal points World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 Scoreboard. After three gripping games, a game that could decide the fate of the series and leave a lasting impression on their campaign is about to begin.
Australia vs India: Thrills and Challenges
The series has been a rollercoaster of emotions and performances, showcasing the intense rivalry between two cricket powerhouses. India got off to a promising start, recording a crushing 295-run victory in the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. This victory was achieved under the leadership of the substitute captain Jasprit Bumrahunderlining India’s dominance in all aspects of the game. However, Australia quickly responded. Under the lights and pink ball, the home team registered a commanding 10-wicket victory in the second Test at Adelaide Oval. Their bowlers dismantled India’s batting line-up and leveled the series for good.
In the third Test match in Brisbane, Australia looked set to win as they posted a mammoth score of 445 in their first innings thanks to centuries. Travis Hyde and Steve Smith. India’s batting struggled again but a combination of low-order resistance and persistent rain dashed Australia’s hopes. The rain-affected draw leveled the series, setting the stage for a high-stakes fourth Test at the MCG.
Also read: AUS vs IND 2024: Melbourne Boxing Day Test Weather Forecast | Australia vs India
Strategic shift in India’s batting line-up: KL Rahul or Rohit Sharma as opener?
India’s preparations for the Boxing Day Test include major changes to the batting order. According to multiple media reports, Rohit SharmaOne of India’s most successful openers in recent years, he is likely to return to his spot at the top of the rankings. This decision may have come after his struggles in the middle of the series. Although Rohit has scored just 152 runs in seven games this season, averaging just 11.69, his career as an opener has still been outstanding. As an opener, he scored 2,685 runs in 64 innings with 9 centuries and 8 fifties. His ability to take over the new ball and dominate the powerplay could give India the strong start they need.
Kuala Lumpur RahulHe has been consistent in this series, with 235 runs and an average of 47.00, and he will move up to third place. Rahul’s patient attitude and solid technique make him the ideal choice to stabilize the innings after the loss of early wickets. His promotion strengthens the middle order and provides flexibility to the Indian line-up in case of quick dismissals. This change in strategy is aimed at countering Australia’s potent bowling attack, driven by Mitchell Stark and Pat Cumminslaying a solid foundation for India’s innings.
Breakthrough – Rohit Sharma Opener – Kuala Lumpur (KL) to play 3 games at MCG
— Rohit Juglan Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) December 25, 2024
What the Boxing Day Test means
this The Boxing Day Test is of unparalleled importance For both teams. The series is level at 1-1 and a win at the MCG would take an undisputed lead ahead of the final Test. In addition to the immediate impact on the series, this game is also crucial for the World Trade Center, where every point counts. India, aiming to regain form after the third Test was marred by heavy rain, will look to overcome the challenges posed by Australia’s disciplined bowling and home advantage. Australia, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their performances in Adelaide and Brisbane and confident of continuing their momentum. However, they are under pressure to maintain the record as they have not beaten India at the MCG since 2011.
