The highly anticipated Boxing Day Test between India and Australia commenced at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with Australia captain Pat Cummins winning the toss and opting to bat first. This fourth Test in the closely fought series has drawn significant attention, with the series locked at 1-1.
Reason behind Shubman Gill’s absence
India made a notable change to their playing XI by dropping opener Shubman Gill in favor of spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. While India skipper Rohit Sharma did not disclose the reasoning behind this move at the toss, the decision appears to be influenced by the spin-friendly nature of the surface, which is expected to favor spinners as the game progresses.
Shubman Gill’s struggles in the series may have also played a role in his exclusion. The young opener has scored just 60 runs across three innings, averaging 20, and has appeared out of rhythm, with technical flaws surfacing during his time at the crease. With Ravichandran Ashwin unavailable, India likely prioritized balance in their lineup by adding a spinner who can contribute with the bat. Sundar’s inclusion provides depth to India’s batting while diversifying their bowling attack.
“We would have batted as well…we have to bowl well. The series is 1-1 and a lot to play for. We fought really well in that game [Brisbane],” Rohit said at the toss.
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Australia’s lineup changes for the Boxing Day test
Australia also made adjustments to their XI, handing a debut to youngster Sam Konstas, who was presented with his Baggy Green earlier in the day. Konstas opened the innings alongside Usman Khawaja, replacing Nathan McSweeney, who was dropped despite a decent showing in the series. Additionally, ace pacer Josh Hazlewood was ruled out, paving the way for Scott Boland to feature in his absence. The reshuffled Australian lineup looked to make an immediate impact in the crucial encounter.
Morning session: Sam Konstas destroys India’s bowling
Australia had a strong start to the match, reaching 112/1 at Lunch on Day 1. Debutant Sam Konstas impressed with an attacking approach, utilizing unorthodox shots such as ramp strokes to unsettle Indian pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. His aggressive 60-run knock set the tone for Australia’s innings before he was dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, who gave India their first breakthrough. At the break, Khawaja (38 not out) and Marnus Labuschagne (12 not out) were at the crease, with Australia holding the upper hand. Khawaja’s steady presence and Labuschagne’s reputation as a prolific scorer remain crucial for Australia to consolidate their position further.