Even though Australia’s top and middle order struggled on Day 4, the tailenders, spearheaded by captain Pat Cummins, put up a solid fight, boosting their team’s lead to 333 runs as they head into the final day of the fourth Test against India. The lower order showed impressive determination, with Nathan Lyon (41 not out) and Scott Boland (10 not out) forming a crucial 55-run partnership.

This late push from the tail has not only given Australia a more secure lead but also shifted the momentum in their favor, making it a tougher challenge for India to chase down at least 334 runs on Day 5.

For India, the pressure is building, particularly on their openers, who now have the tough job of giving the team a fast start as they aim to chase down the target.

With the threat of a loss potentially ending the series for Australia at home, the pressure on the openers has definitely increased. The Australian bowlers will have the upper hand on the final day, so India’s opening pair, Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, need to stay strong during these critical moments. However, both had a rough time in their last innings.

Rohit’s struggles continued as he only managed to score 3 runs off five balls, while Jaiswal played a decent innings with 82 runs but got out due to a messy mix-up with Virat Kohli. Vaughan thinks both openers are probably relieved they didn’t have to bat late on Day 4.

“You’ve just got to look at psychology; Rohit Sharma (would) be going in first under a huge amount of pressure,” the former England captain mentioned, as reported by Fox Sports.

“Then, you have got Jaiswal who has had a shocker in the field. I think both of those players would be quite happy to just get out of the MCG tonight and come back tomorrow.”

Shastri is on the same page as Vaughan

Ravi Shastri, the former head coach of India, agreed with Vaughan, saying the players will feel “fresher” on the morning of Day 5.

“They’ll be relieved they’re not batting tonight,” Shastri mentioned.

“It’s a whole different scenario when you’ve been fielding all day compared to those last few overs. Coming back the next day changes everything. You’re more refreshed, and you know that if you can last through the day, you either set a good score or secure a draw.”

Read Also: Rohit Sharma's Frustration: Yashasvi Jaiswal's Dropped Catches Spark Controversy

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