Australia delivered an exceptional bowling performance to defeat India by 184 runs in the Melbourne Test, taking a 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
India needed 340 runs in 92 overs but collapsed in the evening session as Australia took seven wickets for just 34 runs, bowling India out for 155. This sets up an exciting series finale in Sydney.
Australian captain Pat Cummins, who was named Player of the Match for his six wickets and handy contributions of 49 and 41 runs with the bat, called it one of the best matches he’s been part of. He praised Steve Smith’s brilliant innings and the team’s lower-order batting effort.
India’s opener Yashasvi Jaiswal resisted with a valiant 84, but after his dismissal off a bouncer by Cummins, India’s chances faded. Rishabh Pant added 30 runs, but his departure after tea triggered a collapse. The rest of the Indian batting lineup fell quickly, with Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and others contributing minimal runs.
Washington Sundar managed a stubborn unbeaten five off 45 balls, but Australia’s bowlers sealed the win swiftly, taking the last three wickets in just four overs.
Australia is now close to securing a spot in the World Test Championship final against South Africa with a win in Sydney. India can still make it but must win the final Test and hope Sri Lanka defeats Australia in their upcoming series.
