New Delhi: A commanding performance from the hosts has placed India in a difficult position in the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Chasing Australia’s massive total of 474, India responded with a solid 102-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal for the third wicket. However, a familiar collapse ensued at the MCG after the young opener was dismissed due to a needless run-out.
The dismissal appeared to trigger a collapse for India as they lost three more wickets in rapid succession. At the end of the day, India found themselves in a tough spot at 164/5, trailing Australia by 310 runs. The visitors need an additional 111 runs to avoid the follow-on, but cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar believes that will not be enough.
Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar opined that the rest of the batting line-up has to deal with the situation with utmost patience to put the pressure back on Australia.
“Jadeja batted really well at Gabba, so he needs to bring in the same application here as well. Pant is the kind of player who we know can take the game apart. So, we need another – India needs another 100-plus partnership. It’s not just about saving the follow-on. India needs to spend a little more time at the crease tomorrow. Even if they can take it till post-lunch, they give themselves a very good chance,” Gavaskar said.
The batting legend further stated that India have to take their bat to the third session to get closer to the Australian total. He added that if the tourists fail to do so, the hosts will bat them out of the game.
“Clearly, India needs to put their heads down. As I said, they have to try and take their first innings past lunch, maybe as close to tea as possible, and therefore get as close as possible to the Australian total. Australia will not give you the follow-on, make no mistake. Even if India falls short of 274, Australia will not give you the follow-on. They’ll want to bat you out of the game,” Gavaskar concluded.
