Tags: India tour of Australia 2024-25, Australia vs India, 4th Test in Melbourne, 26-30 December 2024, Australia, India
Published on: December 26, 2024
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India showed tremendous resolve during a gritty second session on the first day of the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne, part of the ICC World Test Championship. Despite Australia’s strong start, with Sam Konstas wreaking havoc in the morning session, the Indian bowlers adjusted their strategy after lunch, slowing down the run flow and dismissing key batsman Usman Khawaja.
Indian shooters fight back
After lunch, India adopted a disciplined approach, keeping Australia’s scoring rate under control. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah led the charge with well-thought-out plans. Siraj bowled the tight lines, used Marnus Labuschagne’s leg slip and showered him with short shots aimed at his body, even hitting him on the perineum on multiple occasions. This constant pressure ensured that Labuschagne could not dominate as he usually did.
Jasprit Bumrah continued his golden run in the series By removing Usman Khawaja who scored 57 off 121 balls. Al Khawaja looked unstable throughout his innings but showed resilience to notch his maiden fifty of the series. However, his stay came to an abrupt end when he botched a short delivery from Bumrah straight to KL Rahul at midwicket. While the dismissal may seem like a coincidence, it was a testament to Bumrah’s ongoing investigation.
Labuschagne holds the fort
Marnus Labuschagne has been a tough nut to crack for the Indian bowlers, and today was no different. Although he endured several close calls, Labuschagne remained unbeaten at tea with 44 off 109 balls. He was joined by Steven Smith, who played cautiously to the tune of 10 runs. The duo will be crucial for Australia to build on in the evening session.
Kohli-Constas struggle
The morning session was not without drama, as Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas got into a fiery brawl in the middle of the field. The incident happened after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas collided with each other, sparking lively reactions from both players. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, who analyzed the footage, suggested that Kohli may have instigated the encounter by swerving into Konstas’ path.
While such tense moments are part of intense Test cricket, the brawl has raised questions about whether it could have been avoided. For now, it added another layer of suspense to an already enthralling match.
Bumrah’s control over the series
With Khawaja’s dismissal, Bumrah has now taken 22 wickets in seven innings in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. The bowler has been relentless, showing great skill and temperament. Despite being targeted by Konstas in the first session, Bumrah remained calm, constantly creating chances to make breakthroughs.
Final thoughts
As the tea was called, Australia reached 164/3 after 59 overs. With Labuschagne and Smith on the line, the hosts are in a steady position but far from out of control. India, on the other hand, will take heart from their ability to halt Australia’s lead and will aim to continue their disciplined bowling in the final session.
The Melbourne Test promises more drama, skill and battles – both with the ball and between minds – as the day progresses.
