The stage is set for an effective reunion as Australia and India prepare to face the fourth test of what is happening Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Kicking off on Thursday 26th December, today's Boxing Day fixture promises to be a tight affair with both teams looking to stay top of the hotly contested series.
Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series: Brave battle
India took an early lead in the series with a record 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth. Dominating with bat and ball, India showed their mettle on the outfield, putting Australia on the back foot. However, the hosts came back strongly in the second Test under lights in Adelaide. Using the pink ball well, Australia leveled the series and performed well, reminding everyone of their talent at home. The third Test in Brisbane saw his talk marred by persistent rain. Despite promising times for both sides, weather conditions forced a draw, leaving the series tied at 1-1 as the teams headed into the Melbourne Test.
The fourth test is not only to find the leading sequence, but it is very important for the word a World Test Championship (WTC). Both teams are in desperate need of WTC points to boost their chances of reaching the finals. With the series on a knife's edge, the tension at the MCG is perfect for both sides, adding to the intensity and pressure of the competition.
Great challenges and opportunities
- India's strengths and challenges:
India's bowling attack, led by campaigners and powerful pacers, has become a prominent part of their game. However, the team has struggled to hit the ground running in big moments. The Melbourne pace, known for its pace and bounce, gave the Indian batsmen a chance to show their flexibility and resilience against the fiery Australian attack. - Australian home improvement:
Australia's fearsome record at home and their ability to thrive under pressure make them formidable opponents. Players like Travis Head have been instrumental in providing stability to the batting line-up, while their three-run a Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland he is expected to make the most of what is happening at the MCG.
Also READ: Australia confirm their playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India; also announces that Travis Head is eligible
Melbourne Weather Forecast
The five-day season in Melbourne, which coincides with the fourth Test at the MCG between Australia and India, begins with a warm and cloudy Thursday (36°C/16°C, no rain, moderate humidity). Friday and Saturday will bring showers with cooler temperatures, from 20°C to 22°C during the day with increased humidity. Sunday will see partly cloudy skies with low temperatures of 24°C/15°C and low humidity. Monday will be warm and partly cloudy at 28°C/17°C with light rain and plenty of humidity.
Daily Weather Damage
Thursday
- Condition: Cloudy
- HeatLow: 36°C, Low 16°C
- Rain: None
- Moisture: Intermediate
Friday
- Condition: Pages
- Heat: High 20°C, Low 13°C
- Rain: Expected
- Moisture: Above
Saturday
- Condition: Pages
- Heat: High 22°C, Low 14°C
- Rain: Expected
- Moisture: Above
Sunday
- Condition: Partly cloudy
- Heat: High 24°C, Low 15°C
- Rain: None
- Moisture: Intermediate
Monday
- Condition: Partly cloudy
- Heat: High 28°C, Low 17°C
- Rain: None
- Moisture: Appropriate