NEW DELHI: Day 3 of the 4th Test between India and Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) could face disruptions due to rain.
With the visitors trailing by 310 runs by the end of Day 2 and battling to avoid the follow-on, any weather interruptions could significantly influence the outcome of the match.
According to AccuWeather, there is a 79% chance of rain during the afternoon time in Melbourne on Saturday, December 28.
Showers are expected in the afternoon, coinciding with the critical middle session of play. The temperature is forecast to reach 23°C, with breezy conditions and wind gusts of up to 48 km/h.
Increased cloud cover and moderate humidity at 58% may aid swing bowlers, adding an extra layer of difficulty for batters.
India vs Australia: Timings in IST
- First session: 5 am to 7 am.
- Lunch: 7 am to 7:40 am.
- Second session: 7:40 am to 9:40 am.
- Tea: 9:40 am to 10 am.
- Third session: 10 am to 12 pm.
In cricketing action on Day 2, Australia, thanks to Steve Smith’s majestic 140, ended their innings at 474 all out, solidifying their dominance.
Smith reached his 34th Test century, just 51 runs away from the elusive 10,000-run milestone. Jasprit Bumrah stood out for India, claiming 4-99 to take his series tally to 25 wickets at an average of 13.12.
India responded to Australia’s total with resilience, led by Yashasvi Jaiswal’s fluent 82 and a 102-run partnership with Virat Kohli (36).
However, a mix-up led to Jaiswal’s dismissal via a run-out, and a mini-collapse saw India slipping to 164/5 at stumps. Scott Boland capitalized on the momentum with two quick wickets late in the day.
With Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja unbeaten at the crease, India’s aim on Day 3 will be to reduce the deficit and stay in contention.
However, the looming possibility of rain could halt their momentum and may even tempt Australia to enforce the follow-on if the situation demands.
