Tags: India's tour of Australia 2024-25,
Australia v India, 4th Test in Melbourne, 26-30. December 2024,
Australia,
India
Published: December 26, 2024
India showed tremendous determination during a tough second session on the first day of the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne, as part of the ICC World Test Championship. Despite Australia's strong start, where Sam Konstas wreaked havoc in the morning session, the Indian bowlers adjusted their strategy after lunch, slowing the flow of runs and dropping key man Usman Khawaja.
Indian bowlers strike back
After lunch, India adopted a disciplined approach, keeping Australia's scoring rate in check. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah led the attack with well thought out plans. Siraj bowled tight lines, took advantage of Marnus Labuschagne's slippage and peppered him with short tackles aimed at his body, even hitting him in the crotch on several occasions. This relentless pressure ensured that Labuschagne could not dominate as he usually does.
Jasprit Bumrah continued his golden streak in the series by removing Usman Khawaja, who scored a painstaking 57 off 121 balls. Khawaja looked flustered throughout his innings but showed resilience to record his maiden fifty of the series. However, his stay came to an abrupt end when he mishit a short delivery from Bumrah straight to KL Rahul at midwicket. While the dismissal might seem accidental, 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. Although he endured a few close balls, Labuschagne remained unbeaten at tea on 44 off 109 balls. He was joined by Steven Smith, who bowled cautiously to reach 10 runs. The pair will be crucial for Australia to build on their foundations in the evening session.
The Kohli-Konstas clash
The morning session was not without drama as Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Constas got into a heated argument in the middle of the pitch. The incident took place after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas collided shoulders, sparking heated reactions from both the players. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the footage, suggested Kohli may have instigated the clash by swerving into Konstas' path.
While such moments of tension are part of intense Test cricket, the altercation raised the question of whether it could have been avoided. For now, it added another layer of intrigue to an already engrossing 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 was relentless, displaying exceptional skill and temperament. Despite being targeted by Konstas in the first session, Bumrah remained undaunted, constantly creating opportunities to progress.
Final Thoughts
As tea was called, Australia stood at 164/3 after 59 overs. With Labuschagne and Smith up top, the hosts are in a stable position, but far from dominating. India, on the other hand, will be encouraged by their ability to halt Australia's progress and will look 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.