India ended day two of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in trouble, scoring 164/5 in 46 overs and trailing Australia by 310 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) shared a 102-run stand for the third wicket, stabilizing the innings after early setbacks.
However, the partnership ended disastrously. Jaiswal fell to a run out after a mix-up with Kohli, and within eight deliveries, Kohli edged Scott Boland behind. Nightwatchman Akash Deep also departed as India slumped from 151/2 to 159/5. Ravindra Jadeja (4*) and Rishabh Pant (6*) are tasked with avoiding the follow-on on Saturday.
Earlier, Australia posted 474 in their first innings, propelled by Steve Smith’s brilliant 140, his 34th Test century and 11th against India. He was supported by Pat Cummins (49) and Mitchell Starc (15) in frustrating India’s bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah stood out with 4-99, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed 3-78.
Smith resumed on 68 and quickly reached his century with 13 fours and three sixes. Cummins provided excellent support, adding 112 runs for the seventh wicket. Despite tight bowling, Smith punished erratic deliveries, especially from Mohammed Siraj.
After Cummins fell for 49 to Jadeja, Smith’s innings ended when an inside edge off Akash Deep dislodged his stumps. India wrapped up the Australian innings after Nathan Lyon’s lbw dismissal.
India started poorly, with Rohit Sharma departing for 3 after a mistimed pull. KL Rahul showed promise but was bowled by Cummins for 24. Jaiswal displayed flair, reaching his fifty with sublime strokes. Kohli complemented him with patience and precise shot selection.
Despite their efforts, the late collapse handed Australia a commanding position. India must regroup quickly to avoid conceding a significant lead.
Australia 474 in 122.4 overs (Steve Smith 140; Jasprit Bumrah 4-99, Ravindra Jadeja 3-78)
India 164/5 in 46 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 82, Virat Kohli 36; Scott Boland 2-24, Pat Cummins 2-57).
Also Read: BGT: Top-Order Smash Fifties As Australia Post 311/6 Despite Bumrah’s 3-75 In 4th Test
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