Workout
Meditation
Contact Us
The highly anticipated Boxing Day test between India and Australia began at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with Australia captain Pat Cummins win the toss and choose to bat first. This fourth test of the close series has attracted a lot of attention, with the series set at 1-1.
Reason behind Shubman Gill’s absence
India made a notable change to their eleven by dropping the first goal Shubman Gill in favor of the spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. While the Indian captain Rohit Sharma did not reveal the reasoning behind this move at the toss, the decision appears to be influenced by the spin-friendly nature of the surface, which is expected to favor spinners as the game progresses.
Shubman Gill’s struggles in the series may have also influenced his exclusion. The young opener scored just 60 runs in three innings, at an average of 20, and appeared to be out of rhythm, with technical glitches emerging during his time at the crease. With Ravichandran Ashwin With him unavailable, India probably prioritized balance in their lineup by adding a spinner who can contribute with the bat. Sundar’s inclusion provides depth to India’s batting while diversifying their bowling attack.
“We would have batted too… we have to bowl well. The series is 1-1 and there is a lot to play for. We fought very well in that game. [Brisbane]” Rohit said at the toss.
ALSO READ: AUS vs IND 2024: Melbourne weather forecast for Boxing Day test | Australia vs India
Changes to Australia’s line-up for Boxing Day test
Australia also made adjustments to its eleven and debuted a young Konstas himselfwho was presented with his Baggy Green that same day. Konstas opened the entrances with Usman Khawajareplacing Nathan McSweeneywho was eliminated despite a decent performance in the series. Also, ace grazing Josh Hazlewood was discarded, paving the way for Scott Boland appear in his absence. The reshuffled Australian line-up looked to make an immediate impact in the crucial encounter.
Morning session: Sam Konstas destroys India’s bowling
Australia had a good start to the game, reaching 112/1 at lunch on day 1. Debutante Konstas himself impressed with an attacking approach, using unorthodox shots such as ramp hits to unsettle the Indian pacers. jasprit bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. His aggressive knock of 60 runs set the tone for Australia’s innings before he was dismissed for Ravindra Jadejawho gave India its first breakthrough. At half-time, Khawaja (38 not out) and Marnus Labuschagne (12 not out) were in the box, with Australia taking the lead. Khawaja’s consistent presence and Labuschagne’s reputation as a prolific goalscorer remain crucial for Australia to further consolidate their position.
Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024, 4th Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground Report, Melbourne Test Statistics and Records
