India Battles to Avoid Follow-On in Boxing Day Test at MCG

India faces a challenging task on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Resuming at 164 for 5, India needs 111 more runs to avoid the follow-on and keep their hopes alive in the match and the World Test Championship (WTC) race. The dismissal of Rishabh Pant early in the day has put added pressure on Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy to build a strong partnership.

The wicket at the MCG appears to have improved for batting, offering some hope for the Indian tail. With players like Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Washington Sundar, India will aim to grind out runs and stave off an innings defeat. Avoiding risky shots and focusing on long partnerships will be crucial for survival.

Australia, on the other hand, will look to wrap up India’s innings quickly. Despite their position of dominance, they may choose not to enforce the follow-on, opting instead to bat again and set an unassailable target. Earlier in the match, Australia put up a commanding total of 474 in their first innings, propelled by a brilliant 140 from Steven Smith and a gritty 49 from skipper Pat Cummins. With such a strong platform, the hosts are firmly in control, and a win here could tilt the series and WTC qualification in their favor.

For India, the outcome of Day 3 could decide not just the match but their journey in the WTC. A resilient fightback is the need of the hour to keep their campaign alive.