 "What is highest successful run-chase at Melbourne Cricket Ground in Tests?")
India is set to chase 340 runs to win the fourth Test against Australia after the hosts were bundled out for 234 runs on Day 5 at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue rich in cricketing history, has witnessed some of the most iconic run-chases in Test cricket and India's chase of 340 runs could not be different as it could be the highest successful run chase at MCG. Check India vs Australia 4th test full scorecard here
India's star pacer Jasprit Bumrah (5/57) expectedly led the show with a five wicket haul, aided well by Mohammed Siraj (3/70) and Ravindra Jadeja (1/33). Resuming on their overnight sore of 228/9, Australia number 10 and 11, Nathan Lyon (41 off 55) and Scott Boland (15 not out off 74), added six runs in the morning session before Bumrah trapped the former leg before.
Australia had gained a 105-run first inning lead after bowling out India for 369 in their first essay.
On Day 4, India's Mohammed Siraj once again delivered a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne leg-before-wicket after the Australian batter registered his second 70-run knock in the match. Soon after, Mitchell Starc fell, leaving the game seemingly tilted in India's favour with Australia holding a modest lead of 261 runs at that point. However, Australia’s tailenders staged a spirited fightback. The final two partnerships added a valuable 72 runs, pushing the lead to 333 by the end of Day 4. Despite India's persistent efforts, including tight spells and aggressive field placements, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland showcased exceptional resilience, frustrating the Indian bowlers.
Jasprit Bumrah appeared to have broken through Lyon’s defence late in the day, catching him at slip, only for the delivery to be ruled a no-ball due to overstepping. This missed opportunity could prove pivotal as Australia holds a commanding position.
During India's previous tour of Australia in 2020-21 season, India chased down 70 runs in the fourth innings at Melbourne Cricket Ground after being bowled out of 36 in the previous Test match at Adelaide.
India is the only team from sub-continent to win a Test match by chasing at Melbourne Cricket Ground
Highest successful run chase at MCG
| Highest successful run-chase at Melbourne Cricket Ground in 21st century | |||
| Team | Score | Opposition | Match start Date |
| Australia | 231-2 | v England | Dec 26, 2013 |
| South Africa | 183-1 | v Australia | Dec 26, 2008 |
| Australia | 127-1 | v Pakistan | Dec 26, 2004 |
| Australia | 107-5 | v England | Dec 26, 2002 |
| Australia | 97-1 | v India | Dec 26, 2003 |
| India | 70-2 | v Australia | Dec 26, 2020 |
| Australia | 10-1 | v South Africa | Dec 26, 2001 |
England holds the record for the highest successful chase at the MCG, achieving a remarkable 332 runs against Australia in 1928. This historic feat remains unbeaten to date.
England also boasts the second-highest successful chase, scoring 298 runs against Australia in 1895. Close behind, South Africa secured a memorable victory in 1953, chasing 297 runs against the mighty Australians.
Australia’s highest successful chase at the MCG came in 1929, when they scored 287 runs against England. The home team also triumphed in notable chases against the West Indies, achieving 260 runs in 1951 and 258 runs in 1961.
Other remarkable performances include England’s 282-run chase against Australia in 1908 and a gritty 237-run chase in 1962. In modern times, Australia successfully chased 231 runs against England in 2013.
| Highest successful run-chase at Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia | |||
| Team | Runs Chased | Opposition | Year |
| England | 332 | Australia | 1928 |
| England | 298 | Australia | 1895 |
| South Africa | 297 | Australia | 1953 |
| Australia | 287 | England | 1929 |
| England | 282 | Australia | 1908 |
| Australia | 260 | West Indies | 1951 |
| Australia | 258 | West Indies | 1961 |
| England | 237 | Australia | 1962 |
| Australia | 231 | England | 2013 |
| England | 219 | Australia | 1911 |
Highest successful run chase in Australia in Test
| Team | Score | Opposition | Ground | Start Date |
| South Africa | 414/4 | v Australia | W.A.C.A | 17-Dec-08 |
| Australia | 369/6 | v Pakistan | Hobart | 18-Nov-99 |
| Australia | 342/8 | v India | W.A.C.A | 16-Dec-77 |
| England | 332/7 | v Australia | Melbourne | 29-Dec-28 |
| India | 329/7 | v Australia | Brisbane | 15-Jan-21 |
| Australia | 315/6 | v England | Adelaide | 17-Jan-02 |
| England | 298/4 | v Australia | Melbourne | 1 Mar 1895 |
| South Africa | 297/4 | v Australia | Melbourne | 06-Feb-53 |
| Australia | 288/2 | v South Africa | Sydney | 02-Jan-06 |
| Australia | 287/5 | v England | Melbourne | 08-Mar-29 |
| England | 282/9 | v Australia | Melbourne | 01-Jan-08 |
| Australia | 276/4 | v England | Sydney | 26 Feb 1898 |
| Australia | 275/8 | v England | Sydney | 13-Dec-07 |
| Australia | 260/9 | v West Indies | Melbourne | 31-Dec-51 |