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Day 1 of the fourth test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) played out in typical Boxing Day Test style, with both teams battling fiercely in a high-stakes encounter.
After Australia won the toss and elected to bat, They posted a competitive totaldriven largely by the strong impact of Steve Smith (68 not eliminated) and crucial contributions from the debutant Konstas himself (60) and Marnus Labuschagne (72).
jasprit bumrah was India’s leading wicket-taker, claiming three vital scalps, but Australia’s middle order, including Alex Carey (31) and Pat Cummins (8 not out), ensured that the innings did not collapse, providing a stable base. At the end of the game, Australia had a slight lead, but India’s bowlers showed signs of struggle, particularly in the second half of the innings.
Sam Konstas sets the tone with his debut performance
Konstas emerged as Australia’s standout player, making a memorable Test debut with 60 off 65 deliveries. His innings, with powerful shots and a calm demeanor, was crucial in laying the foundation for Australia’s innings. Notably, had a brief altercation with Virat Kohliintensifying the already heated feud. However, Konstas ignored the confrontation and continued his innings with composure, leading the team into a strong position. His association with Usman Khawaja He was instrumental in providing stability, particularly against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Usman Khawaja leads Australia’s innings
Khawaja played a vital role at the top of the order, anchoring Australia’s innings with a well-constructed 57 off 121 balls. His partnership with Konstas was key to Australia’s early success, offering crucial stability against India’s ferocious bowling attack. Khawaja’s innings was marked by controlled aggression, punishing loose deliveries while showing solid defense against Jasprit Bumrah’s pace. His departure to Bumrah in the second session brought Australia’s innings closer to a critical phase, but his contribution ensured that the team was well placed at that time.
Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith keep Australia’s momentum going
After Khawaja left, Labuschagne continued the momentum, scoring 72 off 145 balls. His innings added another crucial partnership with Khawaja before falling to Washington Sundarwhich was successfully introduced by India. Labuschagne’s dismissal allowed Smith to further anchor Australia’s innings, maintaining his consistent form. His contribution was crucial in leading Australia towards the 300 mark, ensuring they did not lose control despite the setbacks.
Smith looked impeccable in touch, reaching a total of 68 off 111 balls before the end of the game. Their innings were full of confidence and determination, especially after the defeats of Labuschagne and Khawaja. Smith’s ability to adapt to the tough conditions at the MCG was evident as he played crucial shots, including a well-timed six. Mohammed Siraj. Despite India’s disciplined attack, Smith’s calm and composure helped stabilize the innings, preventing Australia from losing its way.
Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma issues warning to Marnus Labuschagne for running on the pitch on Day 1 of AUS vs IND 4th Test
India’s struggle led by Jasprit Bumrah
Carey provided valuable support with 31 of 41 deliveries, particularly after the early dismissal of michel marsh and travis head for a duck Carey’s ability to rotate the attack and hit boundaries helped maintain the scoring rate, although his dismissal against Akash Deep was a significant setback. Cummins remained unbeaten on 8* as Australia closed the day on 311/6. The total puts India in a challenging position, requiring them to give a strong response in the remaining days of the Test.
While Australia ended the day in slight control, India’s players, led by Bumrah, showed flashes of fight and determination. Bumrah’s three wickets were instrumental in halting Australia’s progress and Washington SundarLabuschagne’s success indicated possible progress in the coming sessions. Rohit Sharma’The United States men will need to build on their efforts, focusing particularly on limiting Australia’s lead in the first innings and responding strongly with the bat.
This is how Twitter reacted:
This has to be one of the most sensational first mornings for a Test cricketer. He played one of the most audacious debut innings, bowled the best fast bowler in the world and is busy signing autographs and taking selfies before the lunch break. Sam Konstas your beauty #AusvInd pic.twitter.com/wjzRQH8Vxi
—Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) December 26, 2024
This is one of the most fascinating debut Test half-centuries I have ever witnessed from Sam Konstas. He also doesn’t back down from anyone; greater or lesser.
– Ian Raphael Obispo (@irbishi) December 26, 2024
I really like Sam Konstas.. 👀👀👀
—Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 26, 2024
Sam Konstas scored 34 against Jasprit Bumrah – this is the most a batsman has ever scored against a Bumrah spell in Test cricket. I’m shaken
-Ben Jones (@benjonescricket) December 26, 2024
What I see in Sam Konstas is bravery and borderline stupidity. But that’s what Australia wanted. I wanted someone to confront Jasprit Bumrah in a different way.
—Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) December 26, 2024
A bad day for Jasprit Bumrah is still better than a good day for most bowlers.
– Sagar (@sagarcasm) December 26, 2024
The thing about great players is that they find ways to force their way back into the game. Jasprit Bumrah has just shown us, once again, why he is great.
—Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 26, 2024
How is Bumrah celebrating the dismissal of Australia’s top man Travis Head? No exaggerated celebrations, no angry goodbyes, just a smile. Children learn, choose your role models wisely. #INDvAUS
—Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) December 26, 2024
Who is Jasprit Bumrah? For the blind, he is the light. To the hungry, he is bread. For the sick, he is the cure. For the lonely, he is company. For the sad, he is joy. For the prisoner, he is freedom. For the poor, he is a treasure. For me he is everything.
—Alaska (@alaskawhines) December 26, 2024
Day 1, stumps
Australia: 311/6
Steve Smith: 68*
Marnus Labuschagne: 72#Cricket #AUSWIN #SteveSmith #BorderGavaskarTrophy #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/gs6U6K9Z3H– CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 26, 2024
