Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has backed India to capitalize on Australia’s vulnerabilities and secure a win in the crucial fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), set to begin on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The series is evenly poised at 1-1, with India dominating in Perth and Australia leveling the score in Adelaide. The Brisbane Test was washed out due to rain, leaving two matches to decide the winner and a potential spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final.
Basit Ali, sharing his analysis on his YouTube channel, pointed out that Australia faces significant pressure, especially with tough matches against Sri Lanka still ahead. “India will have the best chance to win in Melbourne. The conditions may favor two spinners in Melbourne and Sydney. Australia is worried about missing out on the WTC final if they lose here,” Basit said. However, he cautioned that India’s batters must avoid repeating the mistakes made in Brisbane and Adelaide to seize the opportunity.
Ahead of the Melbourne Test, India has bolstered its squad by adding uncapped all-rounder Tanush Kotian to replace veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who retired after the Brisbane Test. Kotian’s inclusion comes as the team explores the possibility of fielding two spinners in Melbourne and Sydney.
During a press conference, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma explained the rationale behind Kotian’s call-up. “Tanush was part of the Australia A series last month, so he was familiar with the conditions. Kuldeep Yadav couldn’t join us due to visa issues, and Tanush was ready to step in,” Rohit said.
The captain also praised Kotian’s domestic record over the last two years, highlighting his readiness for the role. “He’s proven his capabilities in domestic cricket and gives us a solid backup option if we need two spinners,” he added.
Also See: India vs Australia Series Schedule | India Cricket Schedule with Upcoming Matches 2025 | Australia Cricket Schedule
With the series hanging in the balance and the stakes higher than ever, both teams are eager to secure a win at the MCG. A victory in Melbourne could provide a decisive edge in the five-match series and significantly boost the winning team’s chances of reaching the World Test Championship Final.