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Day 2 of the 4th Test of India's tour of Australia at the MCG saw a gripping contest between bat and ball, with Australia holding the upper hand despite some valiant efforts from India.  

INDIA’S CHASE FALTERS AFTER A PROMISING START

Chasing Australia’s imposing total of 474, India ended the day at 164/5. Yashasvi Jaiswal led the fight with a fluent half-century, reaching the milestone in just 81 balls. His solid partnership with Virat Kohli provided hope as they added over 50 runs for the third wicket. Kohli looked in control, meticulously leaving deliveries outside off-stump and resisting Australia’s traps.  

However, setbacks came late in the day. Jaiswal was dismissed after his impressive knock, and Kohli followed soon after, leaving India in a precarious position. Scott Boland shone for Australia in the final session, taking crucial wickets to derail India’s progress.  

ROHIT’S STRUGGLES CONTINUE, RAHUL SHOWS PROMISE  

India’s innings began on a shaky note. Captain Rohit Sharma promoted himself to the opening slot but fell for just three runs, mistiming a pull shot off Pat Cummins in the second over. KL Rahul and Jaiswal steadied the ship with a 43-run stand for the second wicket, but Rahul fell to a stunning delivery from Cummins just before Tea.  

AUSTRALIA’S BATTING DOMINANCE

Earlier, Australia built a formidable total of 474, powered by Steve Smith’s masterclass. Smith scored 140 off 197 balls, marking his 34th Test century. His partnerships with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc frustrated India, as the hosts capitalized on favourable conditions and inconsistent bowling.  

Jasprit Bumrah was India’s standout bowler, taking 4/99 in 28.4 overs. Despite his efforts, India struggled to contain Australia’s lower order. Cummins contributed a valuable 49, narrowly missing his half-century, while Mitchell Starc chipped in with quick runs.  

DAY HIGHLIGHTS:

- Australia’s Innings:

  - Steve Smith scored 140 off 197 balls, his 34th Test century.  

  - Pat Cummins and Smith added 112 runs for the seventh wicket.  

  - Jasprit Bumrah bowled 28.4 overs, taking 4/99.  

  - Australia was 454/7 at Lunch, eventually finishing at 474 all out.  

- India’s Response:

  - Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a fluent 50 off 81 balls.  

  - KL Rahul and Jaiswal added 43 runs for the second wicket.  

  - Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 3 in the second over.  

  - Scott Boland struck late, leaving India at 164/5.  

WHAT LIES AHEAD:

With the pitch showing signs of wear and tear, India faces an uphill battle on Day 3. The top order’s ability to counter Australia’s relentless pace attack will be crucial. A strong lower-order performance will be necessary to avoid conceding a significant first-innings lead.  

Stay tuned as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy continues to deliver thrilling cricket at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.