# Pant and bowlers put India on victory path

2026-08-19T19:40:48+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

A sparkling counter-attack by Rishabh Pant and disciplined bowling have put India in a commanding position on day three of the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne. Pant smashed a quickfire 61 off 87 balls, helping India post 279 in their first innings and take a slender lead of 10 runs. Australia, set a challenging target on a pitch showing variable bounce, were reduced to 142 for 6 at stumps. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja picked up two wickets each to leave the home side struggling. The visitors now need four more wickets to take a 2-1 series lead. Earlier, India resumed at 151 for 5 and lost quick wickets before Pant and Washington Sundar (41) added 73 for the seventh wicket. Scott Boland finished with 3 for 61 for Australia.

## Indian Opinion Analysis

Pant's innings recalled his Gabba heroics in 2021, showing again his ability to seize momentum when the match is in the balance. India's lead, though small, puts pressure on Australia's lower order on a pitch already showing signs of variable bounce. With a full day left and a target still to be set, India will look to bowl out the home side early on day four. Jasprit Bumrah's fitness and the role of the second new ball will be key. A win here would give India an unassailable 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

## Coverage

- cricinfo.com <https://www.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/1550522.html?ex_cid=OTC-RSS>
  Straight match report with no political or editorial slant.

This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.

Tags: Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Jasprit Bumrah, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Scott Boland
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