On the third day of the fourth Test against Australia, held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), India found themselves facing dire straits as they aimed to avoid the follow-on after collapsing to 164 for 5 by the end of Day 2. The visitors trailed by 310 runs, needing to rally around their remaining batsmen, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, to mount any substantial challenge against the formidable Australian total of 474.
After losing three quick wickets, including the unfortunate run-out of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was dismissed for 82 due to miscommunication with Virat Kohli, India’s batting woes deepened. "The way India play today might well decide the course of the series and World Test Championship final equation," reported NDTV Sports Desk. Jaiswal and Kohli had initially steadied the ship with their 102-run partnership, bringing hope to Indian fans, but their dismissals shifted the momentum solidly toward Australia.
On Day 3, the spotlight was firmly on Pant and Jadeja as they entered the day with the immense responsibility of not only averting follow-on but also positioning India for a fighting chance. Jadeja had opened his account with some bounds, needing to replicate his earlier performances, especially after having played well at the Gabba. Sunil Gavaskar emphasized the need for his application: "Jadeja batted really well at Gabba, so he needs to bring in the same application here as well."
Despite the pressure, both Pant and Jadeja appeared determined to fend off Australia’s relentless onslaught. The pitch at the MCG began to offer some assistance to spinners, as noted by Washington Sundar, who reflected positively on the surface: "The wicket also started to play a lot... it will be good surface to bat on." Their resilience was pivotal as every run began to take on added significance for the batting lineup, reeling from previous collapses.
Australia, on the other hand, remained buoyant, buoyed by Scott Boland, who had already caused significant damage to India's hopes with key wickets. Boland's delivery of a full-length ball outside off led to Pant's dismissal as he attempted to play an impulsive lap shot, only to give an easy catch to Nathan Lyon, contributing to Australia’s ascendency. Pant’s departure only compounded India’s troubles, leaving Jadeja and the tail-enders with the arduous task of saving the innings. "The wicket also started to play... it was good surface to bat on," Sundar had ferreted cautiously.
During the lunch break, India still needed significant runs to avoid the follow-on, with the situation tight. Both Pant and Jadeja had exhibited some fought spirit by exchanging singles to keep the scoreboard ticking. Australia’s bowlers, particularly Boland and Pat Cummins, were sharp and aggressive, limiting runs and pressuring the remaining batsmen.
Among the pressuring scenarios, India's batting stalwart Kohli was recognized for his abilities and composure. Steve Smith, during his reflections, noted Kohli’s disciplined approach earlier: "He looked really good today. I thought, 'Geez, he's in for a good one here,'" indicating the respect he holds for the Indian star. Unfortunately, Kohli’s cautious knock was also undone, caught off the edge by Boland just when he looked set to stabilize the innings later on.
While Australia had exerted psychological pressure over the Indian dressing room with their early success, the stakes were rising as rain threatened to disrupt play. Such climatic shifts may well turn the advantageous position on its head, depending on how the dynamics evolved throughout the day. With rain forecast at 79%, the match’s outcome hung delicately across the looming clouds.
Although Australia seemed to be firmly entrenched, the spirit of India’s side, rooted by Pant and Jadeja’s past performances, shone through. Both players have previously led remarkable comebacks under pressure, particularly during their famous 222-run partnership at Edgbaston last year. The dynamic capabilities of Pant—known for turning around matches single-handedly—and the solidity of Jadeja’s support present some hope to Indian supporters. "Pant is the kind of player who we know can take the game apart," Gavaskar noted optimistically, urging fans to still maintain their faith.
The challenges for India were definitely formidable. Following another underwhelming display from their top order, Pant and Jadeja’s approach must emulate resilience and adaptability against Australia's seasoned bowling attack. Australia knew they would not offer any leniency, maintaining their efforts to quickly dismantle India’s lower order and secure the series lead.
Despite the challenging scenario, the outcome of the day remained unresolved as the players prepared to emerge following their discussions. The combination of strategy, temperament, and maybe some quirk of luck could potentially allow India to stage remarkable upheaval as they stride onto the field, eyes focused on batting through the adversities posed by Australia.
