Delhi: The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia is being played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This is the third day of the Boxing Day Test. On the second day, Australia scored 474 runs in the first innings. In reply, India crossed the 300 mark by the second session of the third day.
Watch: Sanjay Manjrekar and Irfan Pathan fight in the middle of the field over Virat Kohli
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy had an important contribution in bringing India to this position. He completed his half-century after lunch. Nitish broke a historical record in Melbourne when he scored a half-century in 81 balls.
93 year old record broken
Nitish Reddy has become the youngest player in Test history to score a half-century while batting at number 7 or below at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He achieved this feat at the age of 21 years and 214 days. Earlier this record was in the name of Ken Viljoen of South Africa, who had achieved this feat in 1931 at the age of 21 years and 231 days. Before this, England’s Johnny Briggs had played such an innings in Melbourne in 1885 at the age of 22 years and 90 days.
Indian team saved from follow on
Thanks to the excellent partnership between Nitish and Washington Sundar, India has averted the danger of follow-on. Together, both have added 105 runs so far for the eighth wicket. When the game was stopped due to rain, India’s score was 326 runs for 7 wickets. Nitish is at the crease after scoring 85 runs and Sundar after scoring 40 runs.
Big partnership of Indian pair for 8th wicket in Australia
Sachin Tendulkar/Harbhajan Singh (2008) – Sydney
Anil Kumble/Harbhajan Singh (2008) – Adelaide
Nitish Reddy/Washington Sundar (2024) – Melbourne
With this partnership, India not only saved India from follow-on, but also gave a hint of coming back into the contest.
Related News