The Boxing Day Test has taken a dramatic turn for the worse for Australia, with Mitchell Starc’s injury and the flat MCG track threatening to derail their chances of victory against a resurgent India side.
Starc, who has been Australia’s most potent bowler in recent years, is struggling with a sore body, which has limited his effectiveness on the field. The left-arm pacer has been unable to generate his usual pace and swing, making it difficult for Australia to make inroads into the Indian batting line-up.
The MCG track, which was expected to be a pace-friendly wicket, has turned out to be a flat and barren surface, offering little assistance to the bowlers. The pitch has been a batsman’s paradise, with India’s top order taking full advantage of the conditions to post a substantial total.
Australia’s bowling attack, which was expected to be their strength, has been found wanting on the flat MCG track. The absence of a genuine swing bowler has made it difficult for them to trouble the Indian batsmen, who have been able to play their shots with ease.
Time is running out for Australia, who need to conjure up a miracle to turn the match around. With India eyeing off back-to-back miracles Down Under, the hosts are facing an uphill battle to save the Test, let alone win it.
The Indian team, which has been bolstered by the return of some of their key players, is looking confident and determined. They have been able to capitalize on the Australian bowling attack’s weaknesses, with their batsmen playing some exceptional cricket.
The crowd at the MCG has been left stunned by the dramatic turn of events, with many wondering how the match has slipped away from Australia so quickly. The hosts, who were expected to dominate the series, are now facing the very real possibility of going 1-0 down in the series.
Australia’s batting line-up, which has been inconsistent of late, will need to fire on all cylinders if they are to save the Test. They will need to post a substantial total to give their bowlers a chance to defend, but it will be a tough ask on a pitch that is offering little assistance to the bowlers.
The next couple of days will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match, with Australia needing to produce something special to turn the tide in their favor. With the series hanging in the balance, the hosts will need to dig deep and find a way to overcome the challenges they are facing.