At the close of an action-packed Day 4 in the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Australia found themselves in a commanding position, leading by 333 runs with their final wicket partnership holding firm.
Reflecting on the day’s play, Marnus Labuschagne acknowledged the gripping nature of the final moments, describing it as thrilling even from the dressing room.
“India definitely clawed it back today, but going into Day 5 with a lead of 333, I’d say we’re just ahead,” Labuschagne admitted.
“Sitting with our batting coach, Michael Di Venuto, watching every ball, it was intense—overthrows, leg byes, running twos. We even ended with a no-ball wicket and a boundary off the last ball. For anyone doubting Test cricket’s excitement, I’m a player, and even I was glued to it!”
Labuschagne revealed that Australia’s initial plan to pile on runs and declare by the evening was derailed by India’s disciplined bowling. The hosts had to adjust, focusing on consolidation after their middle-order collapse.
“Ideally, we wanted to bowl tonight and put India under pressure,” he explained. “But with the way the wicket played and India bowled in the first 40-50 overs, that wasn’t an option. At one point, it looked like we might only get to 250 or 270, but credit to our lower order for pushing us to a strong position.”
Labuschagne himself played a key role in Australia’s fightback, scoring a determined 70 runs.
Reflecting on his batting approach, he said, “Since I was a kid, I’ve always valued my wicket. I didn’t want to stop batting, so I learned to avoid risky shots, which has become part of my game now.”
Skipper Pat Cummins also played a vital role in the recovery, stitching a crucial seventh-wicket partnership with Labuschagne as Australia recovered from 91/6. Labuschagne praised Cummins, saying, “Pat was amazing. He knows his scoring areas and finds a way to contribute when the team needs it. We even talked about his Edgbaston innings during the Ashes. He just knows how to scrap.”
A key aspect of their partnership was a strategic plan to shield Cummins from Jasprit Bumrah, who was in devastating form.
Labuschagne explained, “I decided to take on Bumrah, as I’d been at the crease longer and felt more comfortable lining him up. Pat and I stuck to a process to ensure I faced Bumrah as much as possible, while we targeted the other bowlers. It worked well, though they caught us out once or twice.”
With Australia now in a strong position, Labuschagne credited the team for their resilience and adaptability. The hosts will aim to add to their lead on Day 5, while India will look for quick breakthroughs to keep their hopes alive in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.