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Jasprit Bumrah’s late burst reignited India’s hopes on Day 1 of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). After Washington Sundar ended a solid partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, Bumrah sent Travis Head back for a duck and dismissed Mitchell Marsh soon after. Despite India’s fightback, Steve Smith held firm as Australia finished the day at 311/6.

MORNING SESSION: KONSTAS SHINES, INDIA STRUGGLES

Australia got off to a blazing start, thanks to debutant opener Sam Konstas, who smashed his maiden half-century in just 52 balls. His aggressive approach rattled India’s bowlers, forcing Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj off their rhythm. Konstas showcased audacious hitting, even scooping Bumrah for boundaries. However, his innings ended on 60 off 65 balls when Ravindra Jadeja outfoxed him just after the drinks break.  

Despite Konstas’ heroics, Usman Khawaja steadied the innings, reaching Lunch at 112/1 after 25 overs.

AFTERNOON SESSION: KHAWAJA AND LABUSCHAGNE CONSOLIDATE

Post-lunch, Khawaja and Labuschagne ground out valuable runs, blunting India’s attack with a mix of patience and grit. Khawaja fought his way to a well-earned half-century off 101 balls before falling to a seemingly harmless delivery from Bumrah, chipping it straight to midwicket.  

Labuschagne, however, continued the charge, combining with Steve Smith to build a strong third-wicket stand of 83 runs. Australia went into Tea at 176/2, firmly in control.

EVENING SESSION: BUMRAH STRIKES BACK

The final session saw India claw back into the game. Washington Sundar dismissed Labuschagne for 72 (145 balls) just after the drinks break, ending his crucial partnership with Smith. Shortly after, Bumrah bowled a stunning delivery to dismiss Travis Head for a duck and followed it up with the wicket of Mitchell Marsh.  

Steve Smith stood tall amidst the chaos, bringing his trademark resilience to steer Australia to a solid 311/6 at stumps.

KEY TALKING POINTS

- Jasprit Bumrah’s Impact: Bumrah led India’s fightback, claiming key wickets, including Head and Marsh, late in the day.  

- Steve Smith’s Defiance: Smith remains unbeaten, anchoring Australia’s innings with a composed knock.  

- Sam Konstas’ Explosive Start: The debutant opener stunned India with his 60 off 65 balls, showcasing fearless hitting.  

- India’s Bowling Gamble: Dropping Shubman Gill for an extra spinner, Washington Sundar, proved decisive as he dismissed Labuschagne.  

- Rohit Sharma’s Position Debate: Listed at No.3 on the team sheet, Rohit’s batting role remains under scrutiny as the series hangs in the balance.  

MATCH CONTEXT:

- Series Status: Level at 1-1  

  - India won the first Test in Perth by 295 runs.  

  - Australia claimed the pink-ball Test in Adelaide by 10 wickets.  

  - The rain-affected third Test in Brisbane ended in a draw.  

- India’s Objective: A win at the MCG will ensure India retains the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for a historic third straight time in Australia.  

DAY 1 AT A GLANCE:

- Australia 112/1 at Lunch: Konstas dominated with a quickfire 60, but Jadeja broke through.  

- Australia 176/2 at Tea: Khawaja’s half-century and Labuschagne’s resilience kept Australia on top.  

- Australia 311/6 at Stumps: Bumrah’s late heroics brought India back into contention.  

LOOKING AHEAD:

Day 2 promises an intense battle as India aims to restrict Australia and stay in the hunt. All eyes will be on Steve Smith, who could be the key to Australia setting a formidable total. Meanwhile, India’s bowlers, led by Bumrah, need early breakthroughs to seize control.