India's top-order woes: From stability to struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy stands at a crossroads for Indian cricket. It's a series teetering between heartbreak and triumph, where new heroes may rise to claim the spotlight, yet the struggles of India's seasoned top order loom large, casting a shadow over this transitional phase.

- SUNIL YASH KALRA

After losing the MCG test by 184 runs Australia is leading the series by 2-1. Chasing a target of 340, India's second innings collapsed for just 155. The Indian team had only today to achieve the target but couldn't last three full sessions as all 11 batters returned to the pavilion. This marks India's first Test defeat at Melbourne in 13 years, with the last loss here occurring in 2011. With this victory, Australia has taken a 2-1 lead in the five-match series after four Tests. The fifth and final Test will begin on January 3 in Sydney.