The total attendance for this Test has reached almost 300,000 with a day still to go and those spectators have each witnessed a thrilling Test, with the see-saw action on the fourth day maintaining the excitement.
Australia will be the happier side as they move into the final day given their lead was only 196 when the sixth wicket fell.
Labuschagne’s half-century was the backbone of their recovery, Cummins again provided runs when it mattered most while Lyon and Boland tipped the balance.
Mohammed Siraj, who was excellent for his 3-66, dropped Lyon in his follow-through, at which point Australia’s advantage was 279.
The last-wicket pair looked comfortable late in the day as the bowlers tired, batting for more than an hour together on a pitch that had previously offered plenty of uneven bounce.
Boland, who ended 10 not out, cut for four to take the lead past 300 while Lyon hit five fours in his 41 not out.
Their efforts ensured India will require the highest successful fourth-innings chase at the Melbourne Cricket Ground if they are to win.
The previous record, England’s 332-7, was made in 1928, while no side has scored more than 231 in victory since 1962 – although Australia may well have had India’s epic chase of 328 at the Gabba on their last tour in mind when delaying their declaration.
While a draw would set up a winner-takes-all decider in Sydney next week, it would mean India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final are no longer in their hands.
Australia must win the series outright to regain the Border-Gavaskar trophy while India need to only draw as the holders.
