Australia took control of the fourth Test on day two in Melbourne, with a stellar performance from Steven Smith and a late flurry of wickets. Smith’s 140 set up a massive total for Australia, with key contributions from Marnus Labuschagne (72), Alex Konstas (60), and Usman Khawaja (57). India struggled in reply as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli saw their century stand end dramatically.
Jaiswal was dismissed for 82 after a mix-up with Kohli, who then edged a delivery to Scott Boland. In the final moments, Boland took another wicket, sending nightwatchman Akash Deep back to the pavilion, leaving India at 164 for 5, still trailing by 310 runs.
The day started poorly for India, as Australia piled on 143 runs off 27 overs, with Smith reaching his 34th Test century and Cummins adding 49. Rohit Sharma continued his struggles, getting dismissed cheaply by Cummins, while KL Rahul fell to a brilliant delivery from the Australian captain.
Jaiswal and Kohli offered hope for India. Jaiswal, who had struggled earlier in the series, played aggressively, scoring a quick half-century. Kohli, determined to regain his form, looked solid but fell to a ball outside off stump.
Australia resumed at 311 for 6, and despite India’s bowling efforts, the hosts cruised. Smith’s fluent batting, including a century stand with Cummins, guided Australia to a commanding position. Although Smith was dismissed late in the day, Australia’s dominant position puts India in an uphill battle in this Test.
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