Tags: India tour of Australia 2024-25,
Australia vs India, 4th Test at Melbourne, Dec 26-30, 2024,
Australia,
India
Published on: Dec 26, 2024
Scorecard
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India showed immense resolve during a gritty second session on Day 1 of the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne, part of the ICC World Test Championship. Despite Australia’s strong start, where Sam Konstas wreaked havoc in the morning session, Indian bowlers adapted their strategy post-lunch, slowing the run flow and dismissing key batter Usman Khawaja.
Indian Bowlers Fight Back
Post-lunch, India adopted a disciplined approach, keeping the Australian scoring rate in check. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah led the charge with well-thought-out plans. Siraj bowled tight lines, employing a leg slip for Marnus Labuschagne and peppering him with short deliveries aimed at his body, even hitting him on the crotch on multiple occasions. This relentless pressure ensured Labuschagne could not dominate as he usually does.
Jasprit Bumrah continued his golden run in the series by removing Usman Khawaja, who scored a painstaking 57 off 121 balls. Khawaja looked unsettled throughout his innings but displayed resilience to notch his maiden fifty of the series. However, his stay ended abruptly when he mis-hit a short delivery from Bumrah straight to KL Rahul at midwicket. While the dismissal might appear fortuitous, it was a testament to Bumrah’s consistent probing.
Labuschagne Holds the Fort
Marnus Labuschagne has been a tough nut to crack for the Indian bowlers, and today was no different. Though he endured several close calls, Labuschagne remained unbeaten at tea on 44 off 109 balls. He was joined by Steven Smith, who played cautiously to reach 10 runs. The pair will be crucial for Australia to build on their foundation in the evening session.
The Kohli-Konstas Clash
The morning session was not without drama as Virat Kohli and Australia’s debutant Sam Konstas engaged in a fiery mid-pitch altercation. The incident occurred after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas bumped shoulders, sparking animated reactions from both players. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the footage, suggested that Kohli might have instigated the confrontation by straying into Konstas’ path.
While such moments of tension are part of intense Test cricket, the altercation raised questions about whether it could have been avoided. For now, it has added another layer of intrigue to an already captivating match.
Bumrah’s Dominance in the Series
With Khawaja’s dismissal, Bumrah has now taken 22 wickets in seven innings in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. The pacer has been relentless, showcasing remarkable skill and temperament. Despite being targeted by Konstas in the first session, Bumrah remained unflustered, constantly creating opportunities for breakthroughs.
Final Thoughts
As tea was called, Australia stood at 164/3 after 59 overs. With Labuschagne and Smith at the crease, the hosts are in a steady position but far from dominating. India, on the other hand, will take heart from their ability to stall Australia’s progress 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 unfolds.