Australia Ends Day 1 of Fourth Test at 311/6 Against India

dramatic first day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground saw Australia reach 311/6 by stumps, with debutant Sam Konstas stealing the show early on before India fought back with late wickets.

Sam Konstas Shines on Debut

The 19-year-old dazzled the Boxing Day crowd of 87,242 with a fearless 60 off 65 balls, the third-fastest fifty by an Australian debutant in Test cricket. His “see ball, hit ball” approach thrilled spectators, with an array of boundaries against India’s premier pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

However, his fiery knock also sparked on-field tension. A shoulder bump from Virat Kohli and a verbal barrage from Siraj added spice to the contest. Konstas eventually fell lbw to Ravindra Jadeja just after the second drinks break.

Australia’s Innings in Brief

• Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) both missed chances for centuries, with Labuschagne’s wicket ending a crucial 83-run stand with Steve Smith.
• Steve Smith remained unbeaten on 68, anchoring the innings after Australia stumbled from a strong position of 150/1 to lose three quick wickets.
• Skipper Pat Cummins (8*) joined Smith at the crease as the day ended.

India’s Bowling Resurgence

• Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers, dismissing Travis Head for a duck and breaking Mitchell Marsh’s short stay.
• Akash Deep and Washington Sundar supported Bumrah, removing Alex Carey (31) and Labuschagne, respectively.
• Despite an early onslaught, the bowlers tightened their lines in the latter half of the day, dragging India back into the contest.

India’s Strategic Changes

India, fielding an altered batting lineup, dropped Shubman Gill and placed struggling skipper Rohit Sharma at No. 3. However, assistant coach Abhishek Nayar hinted at Rohit returning to his opening role after a disappointing series batting lower in the order.

Day 2 Outlook

With the five-Test series tied 1-1, both teams are vying for control of this pivotal match. Australia will look to capitalize on their solid start, while India will aim to wrap up the tail quickly and seize momentum with the bat.