After dismissing Virat Kohli, Scott Boland continued his excellent spell by claiming the wicket of Akash Deep on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Akash Deep, who had been a hero in the Gabba Test, failed to replicate his resilience here, falling for a duck in the third session.
The nightwatchman succumbed to a sharp delivery from Boland, a nip-backer that took an inside edge off Akash Deep’s bat, deflected onto his thigh pad, and lobbed towards leg gully. Nathan Lyon showcased brilliant reflexes, diving to complete a low catch just inches above the ground, ending Akash Deep’s brief resistance after 13 balls.
WATCH – Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Suicidal Run-Out Ends After A Costly Mix-Up In Boxing Day Test
India’s hopes of steadying their innings after a strong start crumbled with the dismissal. Akash Deep’s wicket marked the third quick loss for the visitors, who slid from 153/2 to 164/5 by stumps on Day 2. A once-promising position had spiralled into trouble, with Australia firmly in control of the match.
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The turning point came earlier when Yashasvi Jaiswal, looking set for a century, was run out for 82 after a mix-up with Kohli. This dismissal rattled India, and their collapse soon followed. Kohli, after showcasing fine judgment and confident stroke play, fell victim to Boland, edging a delivery outside off stump. The Indian batting maestro’s inability to convert starts into big scores remains a concern.
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Australia, with a commanding first-innings total, now holds a 310-run lead. India needs 111 more runs to avoid the follow-on, but with only five wickets in hand, the task appears daunting. The MCG pitch has offered bounce and carry, favouring Australia’s pacers, who will look to exploit the conditions further on Day 3.
This Test holds immense significance for both teams. India, tied 1-1 in the five-match series, risks losing control of their WTC 2023-25 final aspirations. Conversely, Australia aims to end a decade-long wait for a series victory against India. With two Tests left after this, the Boxing Day Test could be the series-defining moment.
