On Day 4 of the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Pat Cummins continued to fight for Australia’s cause, but he lost another valuable partner in Mitchell Starc. Starc’s departure came in the 59th over of Australia’s second innings, following a brilliant piece of fielding from Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.
The incident unfolded when Starc played a solid length ball from Jasprit Bumrah, guiding it behind square on the leg side for a single. Starc, looking to turn the strike over, attempted to return for a second run. However, Cummins, already deep in his crease, had no intention of taking the extra run.
WATCH – Virat Kohli’s Fiery Reaction As Mohammed Siraj Concedes Four Runs In Boxing Day Test
With Mitchel Starc left stranded in the middle of the pitch, Pant seized the opportunity. As the throw came into Pant, the quick-thinking keeper collected the ball and executed a perfect direct hit at the stumps, leaving Starc short of his ground.
— Drizzyat12Kennyat8 (@45kennyat7PM) December 29, 2024
This dismissal added to the pressure on Australia, who were already struggling to maintain their momentum. Starc’s run-out for just 5 runs came at a crucial stage in the match, as Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne attempted to extend the lead for Australia. The pair had managed to add some crucial runs, but the loss of another wicket only intensified the challenge for the hosts.
WATCH – Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Costly Drops: Gives Lifelines To Labuschagne and Cummins
With the lead growing over 230 runs, India’s bowlers, led by Bumrah and Siraj, were pushing for further breakthroughs to reduce Australia’s lead and keep the match in the balance. The run-out of Mitchell Starc was yet another blow to Australia, but Cummins, who was playing a steady hand at the other end, knew the importance of holding the fort as long as possible.
