In an impressive turnaround in the fourth Test match Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Yashasvi Jaiswal's promises innings were cut short by a dangerous mix-up with Virat Kohli. With Jaiswal on 82 and the duo putting on a solid partnership of 102 runs, the incident not only ended his innings but also triggered a collapse that left India reeling at the end of Day 2.
A mix between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli
Jaiswal, on the eve of his 23rd birthday, was in fine form, displaying a combination of ferocity and positivity that had fans and teammates hoping for a century. His innings included 11 boundaries and a six, showing his ability to control pace and spin. Along with Kohli, the duo lifted India from a dangerous position of 51 for 2 to a comfortable 153 for 2, seemingly guiding the team to a respectable scoreline in reply to Australia's first-run total of 474.
However, disaster struck on the last ball of the 41st over Scott Boland. Jaiswal flicked the ball to mid on and naturally called for a run. Kohli, however, hesitated and returned, leading to confusion as both players found themselves at the same end. The Australian bowlers capitalized on the opportunity, completing a simple run that left Jaiswal looking dejected as he returned to the field.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Fans mercilessly grilled Virat Kohli after Yashasvi Jaiswal's unfortunate performance on Day 2 of the Melbourne Test.
Here is the video:
A great mix between Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal sees Jaiswal run out for 82! #AUSWIN | | #PlayOfTheDay | | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/a9G4uZwYIk
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2024
Quick damage
The chase has become a key moment in the game. Just seven balls later, Kohli himself fell into Boland's ball, prompting a delivery to the wicketkeeper. Alex Carey after scoring only 36 runs. This sequence of events marked a very rapid change; India went from looking set for a strong finish to losing by three wickets for just 11 runs before collapsing.
Like a night watchman Akash Deep when he came to fight, he too was quickly defeated by Boland, leaving India struggling to 164 for 5 at the end of Day 2. The team's hopes were now settled Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant when he faced an uphill battle until the third day, he is still trailing with 310 runs.
With Jadeja and Pant in the game, fans will expect courage and determination from the duo as they look to restore pride after a chaotic day at the MCG. The lack of performance in this game will be watched with interest, especially as it affects the team's momentum going into this crucial game against Australia.