Day 4 of the fourth Test between Australia (AUS) and India (IND) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) unfolded with high drama as Jasprit Bumrah led India’s charge with a sensational bowling performance. Bumrah took four crucial wickets, shifting the momentum heavily in India’s favor. Despite his heroics, a dropped catch by Yashasvi Jaiswal added an element of suspense, leaving fans and teammates wondering about its impact on the match outcome.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Magic Turns the Tide
India’s hopes of restricting Australia’s lead rested heavily on its pace attack, and Jasprit Bumrah delivered under pressure. With precision and fire, Bumrah claimed the scalps of Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, and Todd Murphy, dismantling the Australian middle order.
His ability to generate pace and movement on a slightly worn pitch made life difficult for the Australian batters. Bumrah’s dismissal of Travis Head with a perfectly pitched outswinger set the tone for the session, while his removal of Alex Carey showcased his knack for targeting the stumps with deadly accuracy.
By the time Australia was reeling at 100 for 6, Bumrah’s spell had instilled hope in the Indian camp.
Mohammed Siraj Strikes Early
The day started with Mohammed Siraj providing a crucial breakthrough by removing Steve Smith, who had been a thorn in India’s side. Siraj’s wicket of Smith, caught behind by a sharp delivery, gave India the opening it needed to exploit Australia’s batting lineup.
With Smith gone, the pressure mounted on Australia’s middle order, allowing Bumrah and Akash Deep to dominate.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Costly Drop
The most dramatic moment of the day came during Akash Deep’s fiery spell when Marnus Labuschagne, batting on 47, edged a delivery to gully. It seemed like a straightforward chance, but Yashasvi Jaiswal failed to hold onto the ball.
The young batter’s mistake left captain Rohit Sharma visibly frustrated and gave Labuschagne a lifeline. With Australia holding a slim 205-run lead, this drop could prove costly if Labuschagne converts it into a significant score.
Live Score and Match Context
At stumps on Day 4, the scoreboard reads:
- Australia: 474 & 100/6
- India: 369
Australia leads by 205 runs, with Labuschagne (47*) and Cummins (4*) at the crease. The game hangs in balance, with Day 5 promising an intense battle.
The Importance of Akash Deep’s Spell
While Bumrah stole the spotlight, Akash Deep’s persistence deserves praise. Bowling consistently in the corridor of uncertainty, Deep created multiple chances, including the edge dropped by Jaiswal. Despite being wicketless, his spell was instrumental in keeping the pressure on Australia.
Key Reactions to the Day’s Play
- Sunil Gavaskar: “Jasprit Bumrah’s spell was pure gold today. He bowled like a man on a mission.”
- Fans on Social Media: The dropped catch by Jaiswal became a hot topic, with many sympathizing with the youngster while others debated the consequences.
- Rohit Sharma: The Indian captain was visibly animated after the missed opportunity but continued to back his bowlers to deliver.
FAQs
Q1: How many wickets did Jasprit Bumrah take on Day 4?
Jasprit Bumrah took four crucial wickets, breaking the back of Australia’s middle order.
Q2: Why was Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dropped catch significant?
Jaiswal dropped Marnus Labuschagne on 47 when Australia’s lead was just 205 runs. If Labuschagne capitalizes on the chance, it could add valuable runs to Australia’s total.
Q3: What was India’s strategy on Day 4?
India focused on attacking with pace, relying on Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj to pick early wickets.
Q4: What is the current match situation?
Australia is leading by 205 runs, with six wickets down in their second innings.
Q5: How has Akash Deep performed in the match?
Despite being wicketless, Akash Deep bowled a brilliant spell, creating multiple chances and maintaining tight lines.
Conclusion: A Day of High Drama at MCG
Day 4 of the AUS vs IND, 4th Test was a rollercoaster, marked by Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spell, Siraj’s early breakthroughs, and a costly dropped catch by Jaiswal. The match hangs delicately in the balance, with Day 5 holding the promise of a thrilling finish.
India’s bowlers have brought the team back into contention, but the question remains—will the missed chance cost them the game? As fans eagerly await the final day, one thing is certain: Test cricket is alive and well.
Stay tuned for live updates and analysis on MintMemos.
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