NEW DELHI: Australia maintained their grip on the fourth Test against India with a resilient batting display on the fourth day, despite several dramatic moments and strategic questions about their decisions.
Resuming their second innings at 135 for six after tea, the visitors pushed their lead to a commanding 333 runs, closing at 228 for nine in 82 overs.
The standout performer of the day was captain Pat Cummins, whose gritty 41 off 90 balls proved crucial in frustrating the Indian bowlers.
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Australia’s tail-enders followed his lead, with the last-wicket pair of Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland adding an unbeaten 55 runs. Marnus Labuschagne, who top-scored with a valiant 70 off 139 balls, earlier held the innings together before falling shortly after tea.
However, Australia’s decision to bat deep into the final session, rather than declare with a sizeable lead, raised eyebrows.
Pacer Mitchell Starc, when asked about the team’s strategy, deflected the question with a wry response: “You’ll have to ask Pat Cummins… you will have to ask the brains trust.”
Starc, who was dismissed in dramatic fashion, became the victim of a sharp run-out orchestrated by Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. Attempting a second run, Starc was left stranded as Cummins hesitated. Pant’s direct hit brought an end to Starc’s brief innings of 5 runs off 13 deliveries.
Despite speculation about a potential back issue, Starc dismissed concerns regarding his fitness. Speaking after the day’s play, he assured, “I am 100%… My pace is still up in the low 140s, so I’m not concerned. If I need to bowl 20 overs tomorrow, I will.”
Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah entered the record books during the day, taking 4/56 to complete 200 Test wickets in an illustrious career so far. Bumrah’s fiery spell, coupled with Mohammed Siraj’s 3/66, gave India some hope, but the task ahead remains monumental.
