WTC Final: Day 4 Report - Massive Mountain Ahead Of India With 280 Runs To Chase On Day 5 With 7 Wickets In Hand

Last Update on: June 10th, 2023 at 11:12 pm

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WTC Final: Day 4 Report – India have managed a comeback in the game against Australia as the game drags on to the final day of the World Test Championship Final with both Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane on strike for India as the side need to chase down the remaining 280 runs on the board to lift the title in what will be a historic win.

WTC Final: India vs Australia – Day 4 Session 1

As the fourth day’s play reached the lunch break, another captivating session unfolded at the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and Australia. Australia managed to accumulate 78 runs for the loss of two wickets during this session, extending their overall lead to a formidable 374 runs.

On a weary pitch, the question arises: how many runs will be sufficient? Ordinarily, a lead of 374 runs would instill confidence in any team. While they undoubtedly aspire to win this Test, they must also bear in mind that the first Ashes Test is a mere four days away once this match concludes. Preserving their bowling attack, which has already encountered signs of weariness on a pitch that has slowed down, will likely be a priority. However, these thoughts can be set aside for now.

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In the morning session, Marnus Labuschagne departed on his overnight score of 41, and Cameron Green displayed a patient innings while Alex Carey showcased positive intent.

However, the spin prowess of Ravindra Jadeja came into play, and it was Jadeja who ultimately ended Green’s resilient innings. India continued to exhibit discipline with their bowling, conceding minimal opportunities to the Australian batsmen. With a maximum of 154 overs remaining in the Test match, the stage is set for a captivating finish that could keep spectators on the edge of their seats.

WTC Final: India vs Australia – Day 4 Session 2

As the tea break was called during the thrilling World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and Australia, a wave of disappointment swept through the spectators. The frustration was palpable as Rohit Sharma’s face displayed sheer anger upon witnessing the dreaded “OUT” signal illuminate the big screen. Shubman Gill, too, appeared taken aback by the decision.

The disheartened crowd expressed their discontent with a chorus of boos. Meanwhile, Australia reveled in the joy of breaking the opening partnership, which had propelled India to a flying start. Rohit and Gill had exhibited positive intent, handling the new ball with relative ease until Scott Boland produced a delivery that sharply bounced off a good length.

Currently, Australia enjoys a commanding position in the game, holding all the cards. With plenty of runs on the board, they are just nine wickets away from asserting their dominance. Additionally, the ball remains relatively new, further favoring the Australian bowlers.

Also Read: WTC Final: Virender Sehwag, Wasim Jaffer And Fans Slam Third Umpire After Shubman Gill Declared Out Following Cameron Green’s Controversial Catch

WTC Final: India vs Australia – Day 4 Session 3

The World Test Championship (WTC) Final continues to provide enthralling cricket as another gripping day unfolded. With just one day remaining in the final, the equation is set: Australia requires 7 wickets to secure victory, while India needs to chase down a challenging target of 280 runs.

The Australian team approached the morning session with a conservative batting approach, managing to score only 78 runs while losing two wickets. However, they adopted a more aggressive approach after lunch, with Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc forming a crucial partnership of 93 runs for the seventh wicket. This allowed Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, to make a declaration, leaving one and a half sessions for India to bat.

Facing a daunting total, the Indian openers started their innings briskly. However, the Australian fielder, Cameron Green, showcased his skills with a stunning catch at the gully, dismissing one of the openers, Gill, just before tea.

Despite this setback, the Indian batsmen maintained a steady scoring rate during the final session. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara displayed good form and looked comfortable at the crease. However, the Indian captain fell to Nathan Lyon in the latter’s first over while attempting a sweep shot. In the very next over, Pujara departed, playing an uncharacteristic shot. Australia capitalized on these breakthroughs and gained momentum. Nevertheless, Kohli’s former deputy, Ajinkya Rahane, joined him at the crease and together they built a fluent partnership of 71 runs.

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WTC Final: Day 4 Scorecard

India won the toss and elected to bowl first.

Australia: 469/10 (121.3 overs) 1st Innings
Travis Head 163 (174), Steve Smith 121 (268)
Mohammed Siraj 4-108-28.3-4, Shardul Thakur 2-83-23-4

India: 296/10 (69.4 overs) 1st Innings
Ajinkya Rahane 89 (129), Shardul Thakur 51 (109)
Pat Cummins 3-83-20-2, Cameron Green 2-44-12-1

Australia: 270/8 (83.4 overs) 2nd Innings Declared
Alex Carey 66* (105), Marnus Labuschagne 41 (126)
Ravindra Jadeja 3-58-23-4, Mohammed Shami 2-39-16.3-6

India: 164/3 (40 overs) 2nd Innings
Virat Kohli 44* (60), Rohit Sharma 43 (60)
Nathan Lyon 1-32-11-1, Scott Boland 1-38-11-1

India need 280 runs to win | Australia need 7 wickets to win