The final session of the Test match hangs in a delicate balance, with Australia setting India a challenging target of 275 runs. The narrative has dramatically shifted from what seemed like a stalemate to a potential edge-of-the-seat finale. In just 18 overs, Australia has accumulated 89 runs at nearly 5 runs per over, closing unpredictability into the match’s closing stages. The target has to be engineered in 54 over as India has avoided the follow-on the previous day. But does India really have 54 overs to achieve the milestone?
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The Real Concern- Weather
Australia’s bowling arsenal appears limited, with only three fully fit bowlers – Starc, Cummins, and Lyon – supplemented by the part-time bowling options of Mitch Marsh and Travis Head. Josh Hazlewood who had to leave the ground with a groining calf injury did not turn up today. The target looks formidable, especially considering the Test’s evolving dynamics and the potential interruptions from capricious weather conditions. This is one of the major concerns for Team India as the dynamics have just turned. The weather which helped India to somewhat avoid the follow-up the day before, is now a concern as the rain delays would likely to result in limited overs than 54.
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India faces a critical strategic crossroad. After four days of seemingly defensive play, they are now confronted with a tangible opportunity for victory—albeit a steep one. The target of 275 requires approximately 54 overs, though realistically, they might only face around 40 overs.
The looming question is whether India will embrace the challenge and attempt a historic chase or opt for a safer approach, securing a drawn series at 1-1. The next few hours promise to be a riveting test of skill, strategy, and sporting courage.
