Day 1 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) unfolded in typical Boxing Day Test fashion, with both teams battling fiercely in a high-stakes encounter.
After Australia won the toss and elected to bat, they posted a competitive total, largely driven by a resilient knock from Steve Smith (68 not out) and crucial contributions from debutant Sam Konstas (60) and Marnus Labuschagne (72).
Jasprit Bumrah was India’s key wicket-taker, claiming three vital scalps, but Australia’s middle order, including Alex Carey (31) and Pat Cummins (8 not out), ensured the innings didn’t collapse, providing a stable foundation. At the close of play, Australia held a slight upper hand, but India’s bowlers displayed signs of fight, particularly in the latter half of the innings.
Sam Konstas sets the tone with his debut performance
Konstas emerged as the standout performer for Australia, making a memorable Test debut with a composed 60 off 65 deliveries. His innings, featuring powerful shots and a calm demeanour, was crucial in setting the foundation for Australia’s innings. Notably, he had a brief altercation with Virat Kohli, intensifying the already heated contest. However, Konstas brushed off the confrontation and continued his innings with composure, steering the team towards a strong position. His partnership with Usman Khawaja was instrumental in providing stability, particularly against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Usman Khawaja anchors 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 fiery bowling attack. Khawaja’s innings were marked by controlled aggression, punishing loose deliveries while displaying 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 the team was well-placed at that point.
Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith keep Australia’s momentum going
Following Khawaja’s departure, Labuschagne continued the momentum, scoring a patient 72 off 145 balls. His innings added another crucial partnership with Khawaja before falling to Washington Sundar, who was introduced successfully by India. Labuschagne’s dismissal allowed Smith to anchor Australia’s innings further, maintaining his consistent form. His contribution was crucial in steering Australia towards the 300-mark, ensuring they did not lose control despite setbacks.
Smith looked in impeccable touch, reaching a composed 68 off 111 balls before the close of play. His innings were filled with confidence and determination, especially after the losses of Labuschagne and Khawaja. Smith’s ability to adapt to the challenging conditions at the MCG was evident as he played crucial shots, including a well-timed six off Mohammed Siraj. Despite India’s disciplined attack, Smith’s calmness and composure helped stabilize the innings, preventing Australia from losing their way.
Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma issues warning to Marnus Labuschagne for running on pitch on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test
India’s fightback led by Jasprit Bumrah
Carey provided valuable support with a 31 off 41 deliveries, particularly after the early dismissal of Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head for a duck. Carey’s ability to rotate strike and hit boundaries helped maintain the scoring rate, though his dismissal to Akash Deep was a significant setback. Cummins remained unbeaten at 8* as Australia closed the day at 311/6. The total places India in a challenging position, requiring them to produce a strong response in the remaining days of the Test.
While Australia ended the day with slight control, India’s bowlers, led by Bumrah, showed glimpses of fight and determination. Bumrah’s three wickets were instrumental in halting Australia’s progress, and Washington Sundar’s success with Labuschagne indicated potential breakthroughs in the next sessions. Rohit Sharma’s men will need to build on their efforts, particularly focusing on limiting Australia’s lead in the first innings and responding strongly with the bat.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
This has to be one of the most sensational first mornings for a Test cricketer ever. Played one of the most audacious debut innings, took down the best fast bowler in the world & is busy signing autographs & clicking selfies before the lunch break. Sam Konstas you beauty #AusvInd pic.twitter.com/wjzRQH8Vxi
— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) December 26, 2024
That is one of the most fascinating test debut half centuries Ive ever witnessed by Sam Konstas. He doesn’t back down from anyone either; senior or junior.
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) December 26, 2024
I really like Sam Konstas .. 👀👀👀
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 26, 2024
Sam Konstas has scored 34 against Jasprit Bumrah – this is the most any batter has ever scored against a spell of Bumrah in Test cricket. I am shook
— Ben Jones (@benjonescricket) December 26, 2024
What I’m seeing with Sam Konstas is fearlessness & borderline stupidity. But that’s what Australia wanted. Wanted some one to face Jasprit Bumrah in 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 with great players is that they find ways to force their way back into the game. Jasprit Bumrah has just shown us, again, why he is a great.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 26, 2024
How does Bumrah celebrate the dismissal of Australia’s main man Travis Head? No over-the-top celebration, no angry send off, just a smile. Kids learn, choose your role models wisely. #INDvAUS
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) December 26, 2024
Who is Jasprit Bumrah? To the blind, he is the light. To the hungry, he is bread. To the sick, he is the cure. To the lonely, he is company. To the sad, he is joy. To 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 #AUSvIND #SteveSmith #BorderGavaskarTrophy #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/gs6U6K9Z3H— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 26, 2024
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Ricky Ponting, Alyssa Healy brutally slam Virat Kohli for verbal clash with debutant Sam Konstas
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