AUS vs IND 2024: Melbourne weather forecast for Boxing Day test | Australia vs India

The stage is set for another exciting encounter as Australia and India Get ready to face off in the fourth test of the ongoing tournament. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26, this traditional Boxing Day encounter promises high-intensity action with both teams seeking supremacy in this close-fought series.

Border Gavaskar Trophy Series 2024-25: A Battle of Resilience

India took an early lead in the series with a thumping 295-run victory in the opening Test in Perth. Dominating with bat and ball, India proved their worth on an overseas pitch, putting Australia at a disadvantage. However, the hosts staged a strong comeback in the second Test under the lights in Adelaide. Using the pink ball effectively, Australia leveled the series with an emphatic performance, reminding everyone of their exploits at home. The third Test in Brisbane saw their narrative derailed by relentless rain. Despite promising moments from both sides, weather disruptions led to a draw, leaving the series tied 1-1 as the teams head into the Melbourne Test.

The fourth test is not just about securing a lead in the series: it has immense importance in the context of the World Test Championship (WTC). Both teams urgently need critical points from the WTC to increase their chances of reaching the finals. With the series on the brink, the MCG clash becomes a must-win scenario for both sides, increasing the intensity and pressure of the contest.

Key challenges and opportunities

1. India’s strengths and challenges:
   India’s bowling attack, led by experienced campaigners and dynamic pacers, has been a prominent feature of their performance. However, the team has faced challenges with batting collapses at key moments. The Melbourne pitch, known for its pace and bounce, presents an opportunity for the Indian batsmen to showcase their adaptability and resilience against Australia’s ferocious attack.
2. Australia’s home advantage:
   Australia’s formidable record at home and their ability to thrive under pressure make them a formidable opponent. Players like Travis Head have been instrumental in providing stability to the batting order, while his pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland He is expected to make effective use of the conditions at the MCG.

Also READ: Australia confirms playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India; also declares that Travis Head is fit

Melbourne weather forecast

The weather for the five days in Melbourne, coinciding with the fourth MCG Test match between Australia and India, begins with a warm and cloudy Thursday (36°C/16°C, no rain, moderate humidity). Friday and Saturday will bring rain with cooler temperatures, ranging between 20°C and 22°C during the day with higher humidity. On Sunday the sky will be partly cloudy with mild temperatures of 24°C/15°C and moderate humidity. Monday sees warmer, partly cloudy conditions at 28°C/17°C with slightly lower chances of rain and balanced humidity.

Day-by-day weather breakdown

Thursday

• Condition: Cloudy
• Temperature: Maximum 36°C, Minimum 16°C
• Rain: None
• Humidity: Moderate

Friday

• Condition: Showers
• Temperature: High 20°C, Low 13°C
• Rain: Expected
• Humidity: High

Saturday

• Condition: Showers
• Temperature: Maximum 22°C, Minimum 14°C
• Rain: Expected
• Humidity: High

Sunday

• Condition: Partly cloudy
• Temperature: High 24°C, Low 15°C
• Rain: None
• Humidity: Moderate

Monday

• Condition: Partly cloudy
• Temperature: Maximum 28°C, Minimum 17°C
• Rain: None
• Humidity: Balanced

Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024, 4th Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground Report, Melbourne Test Statistics and Records