The ongoing Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is poised for a dramatic finish with just a day left. The match has been a rollercoaster, with both teams battling for dominance.
Australia set the tone in their first innings with Sam Konstas’ quick-fire 65, followed by contributions from Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72). However, it was Steve Smith’s commanding 140 that took the team to a formidable 474.
India responded with Yashasvi Jaiswal’s gritty 82, but a middle-order collapse threatened to derail their efforts. Washington Sundar and Nitish Reddy steadied the ship with a vital 127-run stand for the eighth wicket. Reddy’s remarkable 114 helped India reduce the deficit to 105 runs. On Day 4, Jasprit Bumrah’s milestone of 200 Test wickets added a highlight for India, but Australia’s growing lead poses a significant challenge.
The History of Successful Chases at the MCG
Historically, the MCG has witnessed some impressive run chases. The highest successful chase at this venue dates back to 1928, when England hunted down 332 runs. Out of 34 successful chases in Melbourne, England (8) and Australia (21) account for the majority. South Africa holds the record for the second-highest chase with 295 runs in 1953.
India’s sole successful chase at the MCG came in December 2020 when they comfortably tracked down 70 runs. Notably, in the 21st century, only South Africa and India have achieved successful chases as visiting teams. South Africa chased 183 in 2008, while India remains the only sub-continental side to feature on this list.
India’s Chasing Prowess in Australia
India has a strong record of chasing targets in Australia, particularly in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Out of 19 successful chases in the history of the series, India features in 12, including nine of the top 11 chases. The iconic Brisbane Test in January 2021 saw India chase down 328 runs, marking the highest successful chase in the series.
In 2003, Rahul Dravid’s double century helped India chase 230 at the Adelaide Oval. India has twice successfully chased down targets of 200 or more in Australia, showcasing their ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.
As history suggests, while the challenge is steep, India’s resilience and proven track record in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy keep their chances alive.
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