India march to brink of victory in Melbourne

Australia was teetering on the brink of defeat in the third Test yesterday despite a battling unbeaten half-century from tailender Pat Cummins after being set a massive 399 to win by India. After early morning drizzle, India started an overcast fourth day in Melbourne with a 346- run lead and with five wickets in hand on a wearing pitch becoming increasingly difficult to bat on. Skipper Virat Kohli declared at 106 for eight, leaving Australia to chase what would be a record fourth innings total at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The previous biggest successful run chase at the ground came in 1928, when England made 332 for seven. Despite more batting failures Australia were still alive at stumps on 258 for eight, needing another 141 runs with the gutsy Cummins not out 61 -- only his second Test 50 and his highest ever score. It followed his career-best 6-27 with the ball. He was accompanied by Nathan Lyon (not out six) in the rearguard action.

“We’re going to go out tomorrow and try and win the first ball and the first over and show a lot of fight and a lot of pride going out there to bat for Australia,” said Lyon when asked if Australia could still save the game. “That’s all we can do. It’s a massive honour to play Test match cricket for Australia and we’re not going to give up this Test match lightly.”

But with a full day left, India are now zeroing in on a first-ever series win Down Under with just the Sydney Test next week to go. The series is currently level at 1-1. Despite not being able to finish off the tail, Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun praised his attack.