The stage is set for another exciting encounter. australia and India In preparation for the 4th test currently in progress Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) At the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Set to begin on Thursday 26 December, this traditional Boxing Day match promises high-intensity action with both teams looking for supremacy in this tight series.
Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 Series: Battle of Resilience
India took an early lead in the series with a resounding 295-run win in the opening Test in Perth. Dominating with both bat and ball, India showcased their prowess in overseas venues and left Australia behind. However, the hosts staged a strong comeback in the second Test under the lights in Adelaide. Australia used the pink ball effectively to level the series with a strong performance, reminding everyone of their prowess in home conditions. The story was derailed by incessant rain in the third Test in Brisbane. Despite promising moments from both sides, poor weather conditions resulted in a draw, leaving the series tied 1–1 as the teams went into the Melbourne Test.
The fourth Test isn’t just about securing a series lead. This has enormous implications in the following contexts: World Test Championship (WTC). Both teams desperately need vital WTC points to boost their chances of reaching the finals. With the series on a knife-edge, the MCG clash becomes a must-win scenario for both sides, adding to the intensity and pressure of the contest.
Key challenges and opportunities
- India’s Strengths and Challenges:
India’s bowling attack, led by experienced campaigners and dynamic pacers, was a standout feature of their performance. However, the team suffered difficulties, with the batting collapsing at critical moments. The Melbourne stadium, known for its pace and bounce, provides an opportunity for the Indian batsmen to show their adaptability and resilience against Australia’s blistering pace attack. - Australia Home Advantage:
Australia’s incredible 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. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Stark and scott boland It is expected that MCG’s conditions will be utilized effectively.
ALSO READ: Australia confirm playing XI for Boxing Day Test against India. It also declares Travis Head fit.
Melbourne weather forecast
The five-day weather in Melbourne begins on a warm and cloudy Thursday (36°C/16°C, no rain, moderate humidity), coinciding with the fourth Test match at the MCG between Australia and India. There will be showers on Friday and Saturday and high humidity during the day will reduce temperatures to 20°C to 22°C. Sunday will see partly cloudy skies with mild temperatures of 24°C/15°C and moderate humidity. Monday will feature warm and partly cloudy weather at 28°C/17°C, with a slightly lower chance of rain and balanced humidity.
Daily weather analysis
thursday
- situation: Cloudy
- temperature: Highest 36°C, lowest 16°C
- rain: doesn’t exist
- moisture: normal
friday
- situation: shower
- temperature: Highest 20°C, lowest 13°C
- rain: expected
- moisture: high
Saturday
- situation: shower
- temperature: Highest 22°C, lowest 14°C
- rain: expected
- moisture: high
sunday
- situation: Partly cloudy
- temperature: Highest 24°C, lowest 15°C
- rain: doesn’t exist
- moisture: normal
monday
- situation: Partly cloudy
- temperature: Highest 28°C, lowest 17°C
- rain: doesn’t exist
- moisture: balanced
