MELBOURNE, Dec 29, (V7N) – Australia reached 53-2 at lunch on day four of the fourth Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, extending their lead to 158 runs.

Marnus Labuschagne (20*) and Steve Smith (2*) were at the crease after India’s seamers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, struck early to dismiss both openers in challenging conditions.

The Indian attack, inspired by Bumrah’s masterful control, caused problems for Australia’s top order.

Sam Konstas: The debutant, who scored a fearless 60 in the first innings, was bowled for eight by a sharp in-swinger from Bumrah that rattled the middle stump.

Usman Khawaja: Survived an early drop by Yashasvi Jaiswal at leg gully but was later bowled by Mohammed Siraj for 21.

Bumrah, who has now taken 26 wickets in the series at an average of 13.3, was unlucky not to add more wickets during his relentless spell.

Earlier in the day, India added just 11 runs to their overnight total before being bowled out for 369.

Nitish Kumar Reddy: The young all-rounder capped his maiden century with a valiant 114 before being caught at long-on off Nathan Lyon while attempting a big shot.

Reddy’s 189-ball knock included 11 fours and a six, marking the highest Test score in Melbourne by a batter at number eight or lower.

Australia’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Nathan Lyon, Pat Cummins, and Scott Boland each claiming three wickets.

With a 105-run first-innings lead, Australia will aim to build a substantial total to set India a daunting target on the final day.

The series remains evenly poised at 1-1, with the final Test scheduled to begin in Sydney on January 3.

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