The most anticipated Boxing Day test in the middle India and Australia started at the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with the Australian captain Pat Cummins winning the toss and electing to bat first. This fourth Test in the hotly contested series has attracted a lot of attention, with the series level at 1-1.
Why Shubman Gill doesn't have
India made a big change in their playing XI by dropping the openers Shubman Gill in favor of spin-bowling all round Washington Sundar. While from India Rohit Sharma did not reveal the reasons behind the move, the decision seems to be influenced by the nature of the spin, which is expected to favor the spinners as the game progresses.
Shubman Gill's struggles in the series may also have contributed to his elimination. The young opener has scored just 60 runs in three innings, an average of 20, and has looked out of sorts, with technical errors evident during his time in the game. I am Ravichandran Ashwin absent, India may have prioritized improving their line-up by adding a spinner who can help with the bat. Sundar's inclusion provides depth to India's batting while diversifying their bowling threat.
“We should have fought again… we have to play better. The series is 1-1 and a lot to play for. We fought very well in this game [Brisbane],” Rohit said while throwing.
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Australia's line-up has changed for the Boxing Day Test
Australia also made changes to their XI, giving a start to the youngsters Konstas himselfwho was presented with his Baggy Green earlier in the day. Konstas opened the innings alongside him Usman Khawajainstead Nathan McSweeneywho was eliminated despite being well featured in the series. Also, ace pacer Josh Hazlewood was pushed, paving the way Scott Boland appear in absence. Australia's revamped line-up proved to be useful in key meetings as well.
Morning session: Sam Konstas destroys Indian bowling
Australia started the game strongly, to 112/1 at Lunch on Day 1. The first one Konstas himself interested in the method of attack, using uncharacteristic shots such as whips to confuse the Indian pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. His scintillating knock of 60 runs led to an innings victory for Australia before he was dismissed. Ravindra Jadejawho gave India their first victory. At the break, Khawaja (38 not out) is Marnus Labuschagne (12 not out) were in a slump, with Australia holding the upper hand. Khawaja's steady presence and Labuschagne's reputation as a top scorer are crucial for Australia to strengthen their position.