India’s batting lineup faced early challenges on Day 1 of the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Captain Jasprit Bumrah, stepping in for Rohit Sharma, chose to bat first. However, the decision seemed to backfire early as Australia’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, capitalized on the conditions to unsettle the

Virat Kohli and Gill attempt stabilization

Indian openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. Both fell cheaply, leaving India at a precarious 17/2 within the first hour of play. With the early dismissals, India leaned on Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to steady the innings. Kohli survived a controversial catch attempt by Steve Smith off Boland’s bowling on the very first ball he faced. The third umpire ruled it not out, giving Kohli a crucial lifeline. The duo stitched a cautious 40-run partnership, countering Australia’s disciplined attack. However, the partnership’s momentum was disrupted in the final over before lunch.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: ??Complete list of anchors and presenters for Sydney’s Pink Test �?Grace Hayden to Mayanti Langer

Heated exchange with Steve Smith and fall of Gill

The 25th over, bowled by Nathan Lyon, saw tempers flare. Gill defended Lyon’s fifth delivery and took his time to prepare for the next ??ball, tapping the pitch and stretching the over towards the lunch break. A visibly irritated Smith, fielding at first slip, expressed his frustration, shouting:

“This is bullsh*t. Oi, let’s play,”

Gill, unflustered, responded with a sharp retort:

“You take your time, Smithy; nobody says anything to you,”

The verbal exchange briefly interrupted the game, with Marnus Labuschagne joining in with Smith, attempting to unsettle Gill. The tension on the field heightened as players exchanged hea?ted words and laughs, underscoring the fierce rivalry between the two sides.

On the very next delivery, Lyon tossed up a slightly short ball outside off. Gill, possibly distracted by the exc?hange with Smith, attempted an ambitious shot, charging down the pitch. The ball gripped and turned, taking the outside e?dge of Gill’s bat, and flew straight to Smith at first slip.

Smith gleefully grabbed the catch and celebrated by pointing towards Gill, delivering an animated send-off. Gill’s dismissal for 20 off 64 balls left India reeling at 57/3 as the players headed for lunch. Smith’s fiery reaction and the perfectly orchestrated dismissal became a talking point of the session, symbolizing Australia’s aggressive approach.

Here’s the video:

This is the greatest cricketing video of all time pic.twitter.com/CpTaQpkBh4

— mitch marsh hatebot. (@Lexbeforewicket) January 3, 2025

pic.twitter.com/BK6iQFJ2fA

— rohitkohlirocks@123@ (@21OneTwo34) January 3, 2025

India’s struggles post Gill’s dismissal against Australia

Following Gill’s dismissal for 20 off Nathan Lyon, India’s batting woes deepened on Day 1 of the fifth Test in Sydney. At 57/3 at lunch, India faced mounting pressure from Australia’s disciplined bowling attack. Kohli and Rishabh Pant attempted to steady the innings but could not build substantial partnerships. Kohli departed for 17, caught by Beau Webster off Boland, leaving India at 72/4. Pant’s fighting 40 off 98 balls ended when ?Boland claimed his fourth wicket, triggering a mini-collapse. Nitish Kumar Reddy fell for a golden duck on the next ball, leaving India reeling at 120/6?. Ravindra Jadeja’s gritty unbeaten 15 off 79 deliveries was the only resistance as India struggled to 121/6 in 58 overs in the third session so far.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith reacts after 3rd umpire overturns his catch of Virat Kohli on Day 1?? of SCG Test �?AUS vs IND

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The excitement of Test cricket often hinges on pivotal moments that can shift the momentum of the game. On Day 1 of the fifth Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground, a dramatic incident unfolded just before lunch, marking a significant turning point for the India. Shubman Gill, who had been looking to stabilize the innings after a shaky start, fell victim to Nathan Lyon‘s cunning bowling.

A shaky start for India on Day 1

India’s innings began under pressure as Jasprit Bumrah, standing in for Rohit Sharma, won the toss and opted to bat first. The decision seemed optimistic initially, but it quickly turned into a precarious situation. Both openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, were dismissed early by Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland , leaving India reeling at 17 runs for two wickets. The pressure mounted as Virat Kohli walked in to face a hostile Australian bowling attack, which had already set its sights on dismantling India’s batting lineup.

Shubman Gill’s brief stint and missed opportunity

Gill entered the crease with high expectations after being selected to replace Rohit. He managed to forge a crucial partnership with Kohli, adding 40 runs for the third wicket. However, despite his promising start, Gill’s innings ended prematurely. As lunch approached, he faced Lyon in the final over before the break. With India at 57 runs and three wickets down, Gill’s dismissal was not just a loss of a wicket; it was a psychological blow to the team.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith reacts after 3rd umpire overturns his catch of Virat Kohli on Day 1 of SCG Test �?AUS vs IND

Nathan Lyon gets Gill just before lunch 

On the last ball of the 25th over, Lyon bowled a delivery that turned just enough to tempt Gill into an ill-advised charge down the pitch. Having blocked the previous ball confidently, he inexplicably decided to attack Lyon’s final delivery. The result was disastrous; he edged it straight to Steve Smith at first slip. This moment encapsulated Gill’s struggles throughout the series—his inability to convert starts into substantial scores has been a recurring theme. His dismissal for just 20 runs off 64 balls left India in a precarious position at lunch.

Here’s the video:

Nathan Lyon gets a wicket on the last ball before lunch 👀#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/B5nfTtBvem

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025

Steve Smith’s fiery reaction after the catch

The aftermath of Gill’s dismissal ignited tensions on the field. Smith, visibly charged after taking the catch, directed an outburst towards Gill as he walked back to the pavilion. This reaction stemmed from frustration over a previous incident where Smith believed he had caught Kohli but was denied by the third umpire. The exchange between Smith and Gill added an extra layer of drama to an already tense match situation.

Lunchtime reflections with stabilised end of Tea session

As players retreated for lunch, India found itself in a challenging position at 57 runs for three wickets. The Australian team celebrated their timely breakthrough while India was left contemplating its strategy moving forward. With Kohli still at the crease but now joined by Rishabh Pant post-lunch, hopes remained th?at th?ey could stabilize and build a competitive total.

The session of Test cricket concluded with grit and determination. The session’s run rate of 2 clearly indicates the pressure exerted by the Australian bowlers during the afternoon, making it challenging for the Indian batters to score runs. As play resumed after lunch, Kohli adapted his stance effectively. However, his stay at the crease was brief as Boland coaxed a tentative poke from him outside off. Pant faced a rigorous examination, enduring relentless movement and unpredictable bounce that resulted in several painful blows to his body. Ravindra Jadeja also encountered a tough challenge, benefiting from t??wo dropped catches that gave him a second chance. India by the end of Tea managed a total of 107/4.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s w?hy Rohit Sharma is not playing the Sy?dney Test

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In a thrilling encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Nathan Lyon etched his name in cricket history by surpassing Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to become the seventh leading wicket-taker in Test cricket. This achievement came after a stellar performance during the fourth Test of the ongoing series between Australia and India, where Lyon claimed five wickets, contributin??g significantly to Australia’s 184-run victory on December 30.

A historic Boxing Day Test

The Boxing Day Test is a prestigious event in the cricket calendar, and Lyon made it memorable by delivering an exceptional performance. He recorded figures of 3 for 96 in the first innings and followed it up with 2 for 37 in the second, ultimately sealing the match by dismissing Mohammed Siraj with a perfectly executed delivery that trapped him in front of the stumps. This pivotal wicket not only secured victory for the Australian team but also marked a significant milestone in Lyon’s career.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Snicko??meter operator explains the absence of a spike during Yashasvi Jaisw??al’s dismissal

The numbers game: Nathan Lyon vs Ravichandran Ashwin

With this match, Lyon now boasts a total of 538 Test wickets from 133 matches, surpassing Ashwin’s tally of 537 wickets from 106 matches. Ashwin, who announced his retirement just days prior on December 18, had been a formidable opponent throughout his career, establishing himself as one of the best spinners in modern cricket. The competition between these two spinners has been intense, with both players pushing each other to greater heights over the years.

All-time leading wicket-takers

Lyon’s achievement places ??him among an elite group of bowlers. The list of the top wicket-takers in Test history is as follows:

Equaling Ashwin’s World Test Championship record

Additionally, with his five-wicket haul in this match, Lyon has equalled Ashwin’s record for the most wickets taken in the World Test Championship (WTC), with both spinners now sitting at 195 wickets. The race to break this record is heating up as both Lyon and Australian captain Pat Cummins have an opportunity to surpass Ashwin’s mark in the upcoming fifth ??Te??st scheduled to start on January 3, 2025.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Anushka Shar??ma and Athiya Shetty left heart??broken as Virat Kohli’s MCG performance falls flat on final day

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The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) bore witness to an intense moment in cricket as Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, delivered a match-defining performance against Australia in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

Known for his prowess on the pitch, Bumrah not only secured a crucial five-wicket haul but also left an indelible mark with his fierce ‘death stare’ aimed at Nathan Lyon after dismissing him on the final day???? of the exciting game.

Jasprit Bumrah gives a ‘death stare’ to Nathan Lyon

The climax came early in the morning session on Day 5 when Bumrah ended Australia’s second innings by uprooting Lyon’s middle stump. With this, he completed his 13th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, a display of skill and dominance that has become synonymous with Bumrah’s career. But it wasn’t just the wicket that caught spectators’ attention; it was the aftermath.

After the ball clipped the top of Lyon’s middle stump, Bumrah stood his ground, his eyes locked on Lyon as he walked back to the pavilion. This moment, filled with intensity and competitive spirit, was captured in a video that quickly circulated on social media and news outlets, showcasing Bumrah’s unique celebration – a piercing stare directed at the departing batter. The gesture, while intimidating, also highlighted the personal battle that unfolded between the two players throughout the match.

Here is the video:

Jasprit Bumrah's fifth wicket was an absolute belter! #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/vfDI5gEN3n

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Jasprit ?Bumrah scripts unique record after going ?past 200-wickets milestone in MCG Test

A spell to remember by India’s pace spearhead

Bumrah’s spell was nothing short of spectacular. He dismantled Australia’s batting lineup, ending with figures of 5/57 in 24.4 overs, showcasing his ability to bowl with precision and force. His performance was pivotal in restricting Australia to 234, setting India a challenging yet chaseable target of 340 runs on the final day.

Also WATCH: Jas?prit Bumrah’s eye-catching send-off after dismissing Sam Konstas on Day 4 of Boxing Day Test

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In a gripping day of Test cricket at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia and India engaged in a fierce battle that showcased remarkable individual performances and shifting momentum. As Day 4 unfolded, Jasprit Bumrah‘s exceptional bowling dismantled the Australian middle order, while Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland‘s resilience frustrated India’s attempts to wrap up the innings.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s resilience ends at the start of Day 4

Nitish Kumar Reddy emerged as a beacon of hope for India with his maiden Test century, scoring 114 runs in a valiant effort that kept India competitive. His innings was characterized by a blend of solid defense and aggressive stroke play, particularly during a record partnership for the eighth wicket with Washington Sundar. Together, they added 127 runs, significantly reducing Australia’s first-innings lead from 311 to a manageable 116 before Reddy fell to Lyon on the start of the day. His century not only showcased his potential but also brought life back into the Indian camp at a time when they desperately needed it.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Ja?spr??it Bumrah scripts unique record after going past 200-wickets milestone in MCG Test

Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery burst on Day 4

Bumrah continued to assert his dominance with the ball, claiming four wickets for 56 runs, including the crucial scalps of Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Alex Carey in a devastating spell that left Australia reeling at 99 for 6. This performance marked Bumrah’s 200th Test wicket, a significant milestone that underscored his status as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world. After lunch, Bumrah’s relentless pressure forced Steve Smith into an ill-advised drive, which was expertly caught by Mohammed Siraj, further deepening Australia’s woes as they struggled to build any momentum in their second innings

Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland hold firm to end the day

As India sought to capitalize on their bowling success, Lyon and Boland proved to be formidable obstacles. The duo combined for an unbroken last-wicket partnership that frustrated Indian bowlers and extended Australia’s lead to 333 runs by stumps. Lyon’s gritty performance included an unbeaten 41 runs, during which he survived a close call when he edged one to slip, only for Bumrah to overstep. This moment epitomized the day’s tension as India missed crucial opportunities to claim wickets.

The final push to decide the fate on Day 5

Heading into Day 5, India face an uphill battle. No team has successfully chased down a target higher than 332 at the MCG in fourth innings history, making their task daunting. The ghosts of past encounters loom large as memories of India’s historic win at the Gabba in 2021 resurface. With Bumrah leading the charge and Reddy’s heroics fresh in mind, India must muster all their resolve to challenge Australia’s total. As the day concluded with Australia at 228 for 9, leading by 333 runs, the stage is set for an exhilarating finish.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

VIRAT KOHLI 🤝 JASPRIT BUMRAH

– The aggression celebration of King Kohli & Bumrah after Australia Wickets falls ..!!🔥 pic.twitter.com/NMMRgAPJFV

— MANU. (@Manojy9812) December 29, 2024

??AUSTRALIA ENDS DAY 4 AFTER BEING 91/6 TO 228/9. 🤯

– Day 5.
– 96 overs.
– Australia with a lead of 333 runs.

RETIRE ROHIT SHARMA
" CLUELESS CAPTAIN "

( Nathan lyon has score more run in single innings than whole runs of roshit ) pic.twitter.com/YrpdSPWjGh

— 𝔸𝕃𝕎𝔸𝕐𝕊𝔽𝔸𝕋ℍ𝔼ℝ (@harsh_hpt) December 29, 2024

Nathan Lyon has scored more runs (41*)??in this innings than Rohit Sharma (22) has in this series.

Has a chance to fix it tomorrow!#INDvsAUS #BGT2024

— Anand (@anandkumarn) December 29, 2024

The 55 runs added by Nathan Lyon an?d Scott Boland will make it ??challenging for India to achieve the target on Day 5

Chasing down the target won’t be easy, but small contributions, like those from the Australian players, can make a significant difference.#INDvAUS #INDvsAUS�?/p>

— Kamlesh Yadav (@kamleshyadav242) December 29, 2024

Aust?ralia despite being routed by Jasprit Bumrah, have stuck on courtesy an undaunted & defiant Nathan Lyon & the resolute Scott Boland adding 55 runs for the last wicket, bolstering the lead to 333.

At one time, reduced to 91-6, India should have pressed on. Marnus Labuschagne�?pic.twitter.com/MA2fQZJGeN

— Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) December 29, 2024

Jasprit Bumrah bowled more than 50 overs (28 overs in first and 24 overs in second innings) alone in the 4th test. We can see the tiredness and he bowled various no balls and even Nathan Lyon scored a boundary on his ball. #INDvAUS #JaspritBumrah #boomboom #Jassibhai #captaincy pic.twitter.com/EB6HJJje1Y

— Parichay by Shankar (@Shanky_Parihar) December 29, 2024

Nathan Lyon & Boland playing 100 Balls 10th wickets partnership at MCG…#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/H1EAflCgRM

— Muffabhai bahra (@Singhdhakad47) December 29, 2024

Dilute poor #captaincy in the name of #YashasviJaiswal
While Boland & Nathan Lyon played more than 15 overs under this field setup
Enna da field set up ithu lam #AUSvIND #AUSvINDIA pic.twitter.com/03OflmdtmF

— Ş𝕟Ƭ♄↳ᵏ𝔪☈ (@snthl_kmr05) December 29, 2024

Jasprit Bumrah bowled 23 overs across 8 spells out of first 72 ?ov??ers.

– India needs to be careful for his workload management. A huge 8 months ahead.

— Monu Singh (🇮🇳 Bihari 🇮🇳) (@OfficialMonuak1) December 29, 2024

Petition to build the statue of Sir Jasprit Bumrah outside the Wankhade Stadium ASAP 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/5yoNOJMCMB

— Un-Lucky  (@Luckyytweets) December 29, 2024

Also WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s eye-catching send-off after dismissing Sam Kon?stas on Day 4 of Boxing Day Test

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Cricket, a sport deeply rooted in tradition and superstition, witnessed a fascinating moment on Day 3 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Australian pacer Mitchell Starc performed an unusual ritual, fl??i?pping the bails off the stumps at the end of his spell. This peculiar yet widely practiced superstition among bowlers is believed to bring luck and spark breakthroughs on the field.

The intriguing bail-flipping ritual leads to Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal

Starc performed the renowned ritual of flipping the bails off the stumps at the end of his over, a moment that coincided with Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja preparing to face the next over bowled by Australia’s right-arm off-spinner Nathan Lyon as in the 65th over of India’s innings, Lyon produced a dramatic dismissal, trapping Jadeja leg-before-wicket (LBW). Lyon’s slider, delivered on a good length, skidded sharply from outside off, deceiving Jadeja’s attempt to work it across the line. Struck on the back leg, Jadeja sought a review after consulting his partner, all-rounder Nitish Reddy. However, the ball-tracking technolo??gy confirmed the umpire’s call, showing the delivery clipping the top of middle and off stumps. Struggling to read Lyon’s sharp spin, Jadeja was eventually outmaneuvered by the bowler’s skill and precision??.

Here is the video:

#Australia follows the bail swapping ritual, and it pays off instantly! 🫣#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 4th Test, Day 3 | LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/1mAPvyNY6w

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 28, 2024

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Sunil Gavas??kar explains why Mohammed Siraj should be dropped from the upcoming?? 5th Test

Nitish Reddy and Washington Sundar lead the fightback

Despite the early loss of Jadeja, India found a steadying force in Reddy and bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. At the end of the day, India’s scoreboard read 358/9, with Reddy leading the charge through an impressive centu??ry (105 off 176 balls), studded with 10 fours and a six. Sundar also played a brilliant supporting role, scoring 50 off 162 balls. The duo ?added 127 runs for the eighth wicket, showcasing determination and skill, keeping India’s hopes alive as they trailed Australia by 116 runs.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Irfan Pathan and Sunil Gavas??kar blast Australian med??ia for Virat Kohli��s criticism

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Day 3 of the 4th Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground saw a valiant fightback from India’s lower-middle order, led by Nitish Kumar Reddy‘s brilliant unbeaten maiden Test century. After trailing Australia by a significant margin, India displayed resilience against a relentless Australian attack. By stumps, India had reached 358/9, still trailing by 116 runs but with their hopes alive, courtesy of Reddy’s standout performance.

A dismal start for India: Fall of Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant

Resuming Day 3 at a precarious 164/5, India faced a daunting task against a disciplined Australian bowling unit. With Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja at the crease, hopes were pinned on the pair to forge a solid partnership. However, Australia’s persistence bore fruit early, with Nathan Lyon trapping Jadeja plumb in front for 17. Pant, despite showing glimpses of aggression, fell soon after for 28, caught at square leg off Scott Boland. At 191/7, India seemed?? destined for a swift collapse, struggling to cope with the bounce and mo?vement on offer.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s grit and determination: Maiden test hundred

Amidst the chaos, Nitish Reddy, playing in just his second Test, showcased immense composure under pressure. The 20-year-old batter, combining sound technique with calculated aggression, took charge of India’s innings. He found an able partner in Washington Sundar, and together they stitched a crucial 127-run stand for the eighth w??icket. Sundar played the perfect foil, absorbing the pressure and wearing down the bowlers wit?h his dogged defense, scoring a patient 50 off 162 deliveries.

Reddy’s knock was a masterclass in counter-attacking cricket. His stroke play against the spinners, particularly Lyon, was exemplary, as he used his feet to neutralize the turn. Against the pacers, he was equally assured, driving confidentl?y and hand??ling the short-pitched deliveries with poise. His innings of 105* off 176 balls, laced with ten boundaries and one six, brought India back into the contest and frustrated the Australians, who were hoping for a quick end to the innings.

Also READ: AUS?? vs IND: Fans go wil??d as Nitish Reddy hits maiden century on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test at MCG

Late drama as Australia maintains control in MCG test

The partnership was eventually broken when Sundar fell to Lyon, caught at slip by Steve Smith, leaving India at 348/8. Jasprit Bumrah followed shortly, unable to offer much resistance. Reddy, however, remained unbeaten, shepherding the tail admirably and ensuring India added vital runs. By the close of play, Mohammed Siraj had survived sev??en deliveries, supporting?? Reddy in extending the fight to Day 4.

Australia’s bowlers, led by Scott Boland and Pat Cummins, were relentless throughout the day. Boland’s precise line and length yielded him figures of 3/57, while Cummins’ raw pace accounted for three key wickets. Lyon was instrumental in breaking partnerships, finishing with 2/88. However, the hosts would have been disappointed with the late resistance, which could prove pivotal in this closely contested Test.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Really enjoyed calling the moment w??hen Nitish got to the landmark and sharing the emotion. It was beautiful. Something you look forward to as a broadcaster.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 28, 2024

What an innings , dear Nitish. To become the third youngest Indian to score a Test hundred in Aus and what an ocassion to do it with the team in trouble. I am sure this will be first of many. Enjoyed your positivity and fearless stroke play. Keep it up. God bless you always 🌸 pic.twitter.com/tSWuL4kKYF

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) December 28, 2024

8 years ago, Mutyala Reddy, an employee at Hindustan Zinc, quit as he was getting transferred & wanted to instead focus on his son's cricket.
Today he saw him get his maiden century in front of 80,000 spectators at the MCG
It's as much his dream coming true as Nitish's! pic.twitter.com/vaifQtlzGU

— Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) December 28, 2024

Nitish had already arrive?d. No doubt about his stroke making and beautiful bat swing. But today, brother has shown his mental strength. Cricket gods are in t??ears. The love of my life is in tears. Wolf are paying tribute. Beautiful.

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) December 28, 2024

Imagine scoring a Test hundred overseas batting at No.8??. Bloody hell, NITISH KUMAR REDDY.

— arfan (@Im__Arfan) December 28, 2024

Congratulations to Nitish kumar reddy on scoring his first century. This remarkable achievement reflects hard work and dedication. We look forward to witnessing more successes in your career. Keep inspiring us all. pic.twitter.com/fjhe7iN8T9

— 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) December 28, 2024

What a proud feeling 🥹👏 #NitishKumarReddy #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/PEJOlQ3mdx

— S.Badrinath (@s_badrinath) December 28, 2024

A proud father 🥹❤️

Emotional scenes at the MCG 🫶🏻 #AUSvIND #PlayWithFire pic.twitter.com/efU62qRSDo

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) December 28, 2024

NKR ek naam nahi, 𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗗 hai! 🔥#AUSvIND #MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/UMApsy66KT

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 28, 2024

This young man just continues to impress. His compact technique, gutsy attitude and most importantly the way he puts a price on his wicket are all impressive attributes of a fine Test batter in the making. Very well played 👏🏻👏🏻 #AUSvIND #nitishkumarreddy pic.twitter.com/vIZyVyM2UJ

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) December 28, 2024

What a moment for Nitish Kumar Reddy's father 🤩#Cricket #AUSvIND #NitishKumarReddy #nitishkumarreddy pic.twitter.com/aqAxYV3Be3

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 28, 2024

𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐚, 𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐚, 𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐚! 🔥💯#AavaDe | #AUSvIND | #Pushpa2TheRule | [📸: ESPNCricinfo] pic.twitter.com/SGYfNY4kdZ

— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) December 28, 2024

Also WATCH: AUS vs IND �?Sunil Gavaskar brutally slams Rishabh Pant over his re??ckless dismissal on Day 3 ?of the MCG Test

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The ongoing fourth Test between Australia and India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has not only been a showcase of cricketing prowess but also a battleground of verbal exchanges, commonly known as sledging. On Day 2, a notable incident occurred between Australian spinner Nathan Lyon and Indian batter KL Rahul, which has since sparked discussions among cricket fan?s and analysts alike.

Nathan Lyon welcomes KL Rahul with a banter

As Rahul stepped onto the field to bat at No. 3, having returned to this position after being demoted from his previous role as an opener, Lyon seized the moment to taunt him. In a video that quickly went viral on social media, Lyon was heard asking Rahul, “What did you do wrong to bat one down?” This remark was not just a casual comment; it was a pointed jab at the Indian batting order’s recent struggles and the decisions made by the Indian team management regarding player positions.

Despite the provocation, Rahul displayed commendable composure. Instead of reacting to Lyon’s jibe, he focused on his game, reflecting a maturity that has often been questioned in high-pressure situations. This incident followed another tense moment in the match involving Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas, highlighting the charged atmosphere? of the?? Test series.

Also WATCH: Pat Cummins knocks out KL Rahul with an unplayable delivery on ??Day 2 of the AUS vs ??IND Test

Here’s the video:

pic.twitter.com/MfFiZuEvRc

— hsns (@sharmahu45) December 27, 2024

Rohit Sharma’s continuous struggles

While Lyon’s taunt may have added spice to the match, it was Rohit Sharma‘s performance that continued to be a focal point of concern for Indian fans. The captain’s dismal form persisted as he was dismissed for just 3 runs, falling victim to a short ball from Pat Cummins that he misplayed into the air. This dismissal marked Cummins’ seventh wicket of Rohit in Test cricket, raising questions about Rohit’s ability to lead from the front during this crucial series.

At the end of Tea session, India found themselves in a precarious position at 51/2 after Rahul was also dismissed shortly before tea by another excellent delivery from Cummins. The pressure was mounting on India’s batting lineup as they faced a daunting target following Australia’s mammoth first-innings score of 474 runs.

The sledging and on-field banter are part and parcel of Test cricket, especially in an intense series like this one. However, they also reflect deeper issues within the teams. For India, the batting or??der has been under scrutiny, particularly with Roh??it struggling to find form. The decisions made by team management regarding player positions have significant implications for team morale and performance.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s? unlucky dismissal after an outstanding century on Day 2 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

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The pink ball has revolutionized the dynamics of Test cricket, particularly in day-night matches, by presenting unique challenges to batters while offering significant benefits to bowlers. One of the most notable features is its enhanced swing and seam movement, driven by the ball’s lacquer coating, which helps it maintain movement for longer periods compared to the traditional red ball. This consistent movement keeps batters on edge, especially in the early overs.

The challenges of the pink ball for batters and its advantage for bowlers

Batters also face visibility challenges, particularly during the twilight phase and under artificial lights. The pink ball’s distinct color, designed for better visibility for spectators, ironically creates difficulties for players, as judging its trajectory becomes tougher in the fading light. Additionally, the ball’s harder surface and pronounced seam contribute to sharper and unpredictable bounce, further testing a batter’s reflexes and decision-making.

Evening conditions, characterized by cooler temperatures and higher humidity, work in favor of bowlers by amplifying swing and seam movement. This phase is especially critical, often resulting in collapses as batters struggle to adapt. Moreover, unlike the red ball, the pink ball retains its hardness and shine for a longer duration, allowing bowlers to maintain their effectiveness deeper into an innings. These combined factors have made the pink ball a transformative eleme?nt in modern Test cricket.

Leading wicket-takers in pink ball Test cricket: Top 5 bowlers

1. Mitchell Starc: The sultan of swing in pink-ball cricket

Mitchell Starc has cemented his place as the most formidable bowler in pink-ball Tests, thanks to his raw pace and devastating ability to swing the ball both ways. With 66 wickets in 23 innings at an average of 18.71, Starc thrives on extracting maximum movement under lights. His control over the swinging pink ball, especially during the twilight phase, makes him lethal against top-order batters. His standout performance of 6/66 showcases his knack for delivering game-changing spells, often rattling teams with unplayable deliveries. Starc’s ability to mix searing yorkers with sharp bouncers adds an additional layer of unpredictability, making him the ultimate weapon in day-nig??ht matches.

2. Nathan Lyon: The spin maestro in a pacer’s game

In a format dominated by seamers, Nathan Lyon stands out as a rare success story for spinners in pink-ball cricket. With 43 wickets in 21 innings at an average of 25.4??8, Lyon’s effectiveness lies in his ability to exploit the ball’s pronounced seam for turn and bounce. His spell of 5/69 highlights his ability to break partnerships, particularly when pacers struggle on wearing pitches. Lyon’s adaptability and skill in generating sharp drift and bounce under lights make him a vital component of Australia’s bowling attack. His persistence and tactical nous allow him to keep batters guessing, ensuring that spinners have a place in pink-ball cricket.

3. Josh Hazlewood: Precision meets consistency

Josh Hazlewood’s success in pink-ball Tests stems from his unparalleled ability to hit consistent lengths and exploit seam movement. His tally of 37 wickets in 15 innings at an average of 18.86 demonstrates his mastery of bowling in helpful conditions. Hazlewood’s standout performance of 6/70 is a testament to his skill in dismantling batting line-ups with relentless accuracy. His natural ability to extract movement off the pitch a??nd through the air under lights makes him a constant threat. Hazlewood’s calm demeanor and disciplined approach complement the aggression of his pace partners, forming a balanced and deadly tr?io in Australia’s pink-ball arsenal.

Also READ: AUS vs IND, Pink Ball Test: Adelaide Weather Forecast for all 5 days | Austra??lia vs India 2024

4. Pat Cummins: The aggressor with an eye for wickets

Pat Cummins combines pace, aggression, and tactical brilliance to dominate pink-ball cricket. With 34 wickets in 14 innings at an average of 18.35, Cummins thrives in exploiting the ball’s bounce and movement under lights. His devastating spell of 6/23 remains a prime exam??ple of his ability to turn a match on its head within a few overs. Known for targeting the stumps with unerring accuracy and sharp movement, Cummins is particularly effective during twilight sessions when conditions are at their most bowler-friendly. His leadership skills and knack for executing plans make him an indispensable figure in the Australian pink-ball setup.

5. James Anderson: Swing genius across eras

Even after bidding farewell to the international cricket, James Anderson continues to find himself in the last of every bowling record. With 24 wickets in 10 innings at a stunning average of 16.25, Anderson’s skill in exploiting the ball’s movement under lights is unparalleled. His spell of 5/43 against top-quality? ??opposition exemplifies his ability to outthink batters with subtle variations in swing and length. Anderson’s control over line and length allows him to exploit even the slightest hint of assistance from the pitch or the atmosphere. Despite being predominantly a red-ball legend, his adaptability and expertise in pink-ball cricket showcase why he remains one of the greatest swing bowlers in history.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: ??Here’s how India have fl?ared in pink-ball Tests

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