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Australia put in an impressive performance to defeat India by 184 runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Monday, taking a crucial 2-1 lead in the five matches Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series. The victory not only brought them closer to retaining the trophy but also dealt a blow to India’s chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-2025 end.
Australia bowling attack stifles India’s chase
With a daunting target of 340 runs to win, India were bowled out for just 155 runs in 79.1 overs on the final day. The relentless pace and control of the Australians was led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starcwho dismantled the Indian top-flight with some incisive bowling. For India, Yashasvi Jaiswal top scorer with a valiant 84 off 208 balls, but the lack of contributions from the experienced trio of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli was fatal to India’s chances of successfully pursuing the goal. Rohit, Rahul and Kohli posted scores of 9, 0 and 5 runs respectively, leaving India with no hope of facing a serious challenge.
India’s World Test Championship qualification hopes take a major hit
India’s defeat has had serious repercussions on its WTC 2025 qualification hopes. Currently placed third in the WTC points table with a PCT (points earned percentage) of 52.78%, India’s ranking now largely depends on external results. To stay in contention, India must win the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground starting January 3, 2025.
Even then, they will need Sri Lanka to defeat Australia 2-0 or 1-0 in their two-match Test series, which begins on January 29, 2025 in Galle. If these conditions are met, India could end the WTC cycle with a PCT of 55.26%, surpassing Australia’s maximum potential of 53.51% and Sri Lanka’s 53.85%. However, if India fails to win the Sydney Test or ends in a draw, their hopes of qualifying for the WTC final will fade with Australia or Sri Lanka taking the remaining spots.
Meanwhile, South Africa has already secured its place in the 2025 WTC final by defeating Pakistan by two wickets in the first Test of their two-match series at SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 29, 2024. This marks South Africa’s first appearance in the WTC final, increasing the pressure on India to perform and avoid missing a third consecutive cycle.
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India’s form worsens: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s failure
India’s batting struggles, particularly inconsistent performances from its senior players, have plagued its campaign since September when the Test season began. Rohit and Kohli, once mainstays of the Indian batting line-up, have collectively struggled throughout the series, with Rohit’s form particularly worrying. His total of just 31 runs at an average of 6.20 in this series has set a new record for the lowest batting average for a touring captain in a Test series in Australia (minimum five innings). Rohit’s dismal performance in Melbourne, with scores of 3 and 9, further intensified fans’ frustration. His inability to replicate his ‘Hitman’ character in the series has led him to Widespread criticism and reaction on social networks.with calls for his retirement, along with Kohli, gaining ground.
Also READ: Indian captain Rohit Sharma equals Courtney Walsh’s unwanted record in Test cricket
