The atmosphere is electric as the fourth Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is set to take place between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, 2024. Scheduled to start at 5:00 AM IST, fans are gearing up for what promises to be another gripping chapter in this fierce rivalry.
Currently, the series is tied at 1-1, with India having secured a commanding 295-run victory in the opening Test at Perth. Australia quickly bounced back with a strong performance, winning the second Test by 10 wickets at the Adelaide Oval, before the third Test concluded frustratingly as rain ensured the match ended without a result. With one win each and one draw, both teams are eager to take the lead.
According to reports, The Guardian noted, "the conditions at the MCG not only promise excitement but also present challenges, especially with rain predicted during key days of the match." The first few days are expected to experience extreme heat, followed by cooler weather and possible rain on Day 3 of the match. These factors may impact player performances significantly.
The pitch at the MCG has historically offered equal opportunities for both batsmen and bowlers, but it tends to favor pacers when the ball is new. Players who can play horizontal bat shots will find success as the wicket improves for batting throughout the day, allowing the middle order batters to exploit the conditions. Previous matches at the MCG have seen the average first innings score hover around 247 runs, with teams batting first winning about 69% of the time.
Fans and fantasy cricket enthusiasts are gearing up for the match with anticipation as predictions roll out. Khel Now presented the following Dream11 fantasy cricket tips, highlighting key player picks:
- Wicketkeepers: KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant
- Batters: Travis Head, Virat Kohli, Steve Smith
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Jasprit Bumrah
According to Sportskeeda, Travis Head has amassed 409 runs across three matches this series, proving his significant value to the Aussie side, especially with the added support of players like Steve Smith, who has been instrumental with the bat. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah leads the Indian bowling attack with 21 wickets, making him another player to watch.
Setting up for the match, team selections have generated discussions about potential strategies. For Australia, the debut of 19-year-old Sam Konstas has caught attention with his solid domestic performance. He is expected to add youth and vigor to the Australian squad. Conversely, India is likely to rely heavily on veterans like Rohit Sharma and top batters like KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, who have vast experience playing at this level.
Weather forecasts indicate extreme temperatures initially, expected to range from 26 to 40°C on the first day. 62% rain probability on Day 3 could influence the match's dynamics, with both teams hoping for favorable conditions to showcase their skills fully. Notably, the historical performance of pacers at this venue shows they account for about 86% of all wickets taken, influencing how fantasy teams are constructed—favoring fast bowlers.
Captain and vice-captain selections are also under intense scrutiny, with choices such as Jasprit Bumrah as captain and Travis Head serving as vice-captain appearing popular among fantasy players. These selections hinge on expected performances based on each player's consistent outputs.
Ravi Shastri, former Indian coach, confidently asserted, "India has the resilience and depth to bounce back from their previous performances; they are capable of doing what no one expects." Contradicting this, analysts indicate Australia's home advantage and recent form as significant factors, making them slight favorites going forward.
With the stakes higher than ever and the backdrop of the MCG providing the setting, fans and players alike are poised for action. India must raise their game, especially their batting order, to overcome the ferocity of Australia, which has now proven its might on home turf.
All eyes will be on the cricketing giants as they clash once again, with rankings, pride, and potential glory on the line. The conclusion of this fourth Test could very well determine which team moves closer to securing their place in the World Test Championship final.
