Published By: Sanchari Das

BGT 2024/25: Unstoppable in Melbourne? India’s Upper Hand in Boxing Day Clash!

A chance to tilt the series in their favour: India enters the Boxing Day Test armed with momentum, strategy, and a history of MCG dominance

The stage is set. India and Australia are gearing up for another epic battle, this time at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Boxing Day Test begins on December 26, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Gabba Test was a rollercoaster. Australia dominated early, but India’s lower-order heroics on Day 4 and 5 almost turned the game around. Rain had the final say, forcing a draw.

Now, the caravan moves to Melbourne. India enters the fourth Test brimming with confidence, eager to outplay Australia on a ground they’ve mastered in recent years. Here’s why the Men in Blue have the upper hand.

Gabba fightback fuels Indian confidence

The third Test at the Gabba was a rollercoaster. Australia dominated early, but India’s lower order fought back on Day 4 and into Day 5. By lunch on the final day, India appeared to be on the brink of a remarkable win before rain forced a draw.

This spirited fightback demonstrated India’s determination and depth. The ability to turn the tide against Australia’s best will give the visitors immense confidence heading into Melbourne. The mental edge is firmly with India, as the Aussies know they were inches away from losing.

MCG remains India’s happy hunting ground

India has enjoyed great success at the MCG in recent years. The team hasn’t lost a Test at this venue in the last 12 years. Notable performances include a drawn match in 2014 and emphatic wins in 2018 and 2020.

In the 2020 Boxing Day Test, Ajinkya Rahane’s brilliant captaincy and century led India to a commanding eight-wicket victory. The match was remembered for its resilience after the infamous 36 all-out in Adelaide. The MCG’s drop-in pitches, unlike those at the Gabba or Perth, offer less bounce and pace, conditions that suit Indian batters.

Shubman Gill ready for a big comeback

Shubman Gill has struggled in this series, managing just 60 runs so far. However, the talented opener has proven his class at the MCG before. On debut here in 2020, he scored 45 and 35*, showcasing his ability to counter Australia’s fierce pace attack.

Gill’s attacking style could be a game-changer for India. The team will back him to find form in Melbourne, where he has fond memories and a track record of success.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s rise continues

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been the revelation of the series. The young middle-order batter has shown composure and flair, scoring 179 runs at an impressive average of 42. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate when needed has made him a dependable presence at No. 7.

Reddy’s performance in Melbourne could solidify his place in the Indian Test setup. His consistency gives India a strong lower-order batting option, which has often been a weak spot for teams touring Australia.

Bumrah’s wrath is Australia’s unsolvable puzzle

If there’s one player Australia fears, it’s Jasprit Bumrah. With 22 wickets in three Tests, he has been India’s standout performer. At the Gabba, his eight wickets turned the game on its head, keeping India alive in the series.

Australia’s batters have struggled to read Bumrah’s variations. At the MCG, his accuracy, skill, and adaptability to conditions will make him a lethal weapon. His ability to deliver in crunch moments is unmatched, and he remains India’s X-factor.

The stakes

The Boxing Day Test carries enormous stakes, with the series tied 1-1. A win would give India a 2-1 lead and a step closer to securing a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, India will aim to replicate their 2020 heroics, with experienced players like Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, and Ravichandran Ashwin key to their plans.

This match is about regaining control and avoiding another Boxing Day disappointment for Australia. But given India’s momentum, skill, and past performances at the MCG, the odds seem tilted in favour of the visitors.