Pat Cummins shocks fans by choosing to bat first at MCG against India

Australia continues to assert its dominance in the fourth Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. After batting first and setting a formidable total of 474 in their first innings, Australia saw India struggling at 244-7 by the end of day three. During the opening session on Saturday, Australia took two vital wickets, leaving India in a precarious position as they trailed by 230 runs at lunch. Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant attempted to build momentum for the Indian innings; however, Pant was dismissed after scoring 28 runs, attempting an aggressive scoop shot, while Jadeja was lbw to Nathan Lyon shortly after. India had resumed the day at 164-5, looking to show aggression in response to Australia's total. The partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant was crucial, but the aggressive approach led to costly risks. After Pant's dismissal, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar ended the session with Reddy reaching an unbeaten score of 40. With Jasprit Bumrah performing impressively for India, having taken four wickets in Australia's first innings, the team hoped for a quick collapse from Australia in their second innings. The match, part of a five-match series that is currently tied at 1-1, has significant implications for both teams as they vie for qualification in the ICC World Test Championship. The expected hot conditions have added an extra layer of challenge, with temperatures soaring above 39 degrees Celsius. Coinciding with their aggressive bowling strategy, Australia had made strategic changes to their lineup, including introducing Scott Boland after Josh Hazlewood’s injury and giving 19-year-old Sam Konstas his Test debut. The final Test is scheduled to begin on January 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, adding pressure as both teams aim for victory in this important series.