India Faces Harsh Reality Check in Test Series Against Australia

India's crushing 184-run defeat to Australia in the fourth Test serves as a 'reality check' for the team. Despite previous successes, the visitors have struggled, with Australia taking a 2-1 series lead. The loss significantly impacts India's chances of reaching the World Test Championship Final.

Former cricketer Atul Wasan described India's 184-run defeat by Australia in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as a 'reality check' for the team. Speaking to ANI, Wasan remarked, 'You can't underestimate Australia. We succeeded on our last tour there, but expecting to win every time is unrealistic.'

In stark contrast to their previous tour of Australia, where India clinched a 2-1 series victory, this time Australia leads 2-1 with the final Test scheduled in Sydney. Australia's dominant performance in Melbourne, culminating in a 184-run win, has diminished India's chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship Final at Lord's. Set with a formidable target of 340 runs, India collapsed for 155 in 80 overs under pressure from Australia's bowling attack.

Throughout the match, Australia outclassed India in all facets, despite the fine margins marking the game. India's promising start in the second innings with Bumrah's pace attack had Australia struggling at 91/6. Yet, missed opportunities and dropped catches allowed the hosts to recover. On Day 4, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland further extended Australia's lead, setting India a challenging 340-run chase.

The target weighed heavily on India, exacerbated by a misfiring top order, leading to a disappointing result. Pat Cummins was pivotal, bagging the 'Player of the Match' title with six wickets and contributing vital runs. As India approaches the final Test in Sydney, urgent reassessments and strategy recalibrations are crucial against a formidable Australian side.

(With inputs from agencies.)