#IndiaInAustralia: Key moments that defined the MCG Test
Team India beat hosts Australia in the third Test at the MCG to continue their dominance in the series. For the first time in history, India are leading by 2-1 in a Test series in Australia. India had set a target of 399 for Australia, who ended up losing by 137 runs. Here are the key moments that defined the MCG Test.
How did the Test match go about?
India scored 443/7 in the first innings with Cheteshwar Pujara slamming 106 runs. In reply, Australia managed 151. Jasprit Bumrah shined with figures of 6/33. India batted once again and declared at 106/8. Pat Cummins took 6/27. Australia were bowled out for 261 in reply.
Bumrah leads the Indian pace attack
It was one of the most sensational performance by the Indian pace quartet. Jasprit Bumrah led the show with nine wickets in the match. His variations and accuracy drove him to success. Bumrah was supported well by Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma. The three pacers accounted for 15 wickets between them. They played a huge role for India with consistency on offer.
Pujara and Kohli's partnership help India massively
Cheteshwar Pujara needs to be praised for his stupendous show with the bat in the first innings. He took his time and registered his slowest career century. Batting on a difficult surface, the 170-run stand shared with Virat Kohli, changed the complexion of the match. The two cricketers played a huge role in helping India get past the 400-run mark. That set the tone.
Cummins only bright star for Australia
Pat Cummins was the lone shining star for the hosts. The right-arm pacer gave his all and picked nine wickets in the game. His 63-run knock in the second innings was a valiant effort. Cummins stuck to his plans and bowled like a champion. Australia's batsmen failed to compliment Cummins. The senior group failed as a unit in this Test.
Mayank and Pant's contributions cannot go unnoticed
Mayank Agarwal and Rishabh Pant deserve special mention. Mayank shined on his debut Test and showed that he belongs at this level. His twin heroics with the bat across both innings, gave India the cushion to breathe. Pant chipped in with valuable contributions. He scored 39 and 33 in the Test match. Those runs were of immense value lower down the order.
