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
Table of results
| Comment
| Charts
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 Test World Cup. 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 dismissing key batsman 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 played tight lines, used a slip leg for Marnus Labuschagne and peppered him with short punches aimed at his body, even hitting him repeatedly on the crotch. This relentless pressure ensured that Labuschagne could not dominate as he normally does.
Jasprit Bumrah continued his golden streak in the series by removing Usman Khawaja, who scored a painstaking 57 off 121 balls. Khawaja looked rattled throughout his innings but showed resilience to reach his first fifty of the series. However, his stay ended abruptly when he mishit a short delivery from Bumrah straight to KL Rahul at midwicket. While the dismissal might seem random, it was a testament to Bumrah’s consistent research.
Labuschagne holds the fort
Marnus Labuschagne has been a tough nut to crack for the Indian bowlers and today was no different. Although he withstood some close attacks, Labuschagne remained unbeaten on 44 off 109 balls. He was joined by Steven Smith, who bowled cautiously to 10 runs. The pair will be crucial for Australia to build their foundation in the evening section.
The Kohli-Konstas clash
The morning session was not without drama as Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas got into a heated argument in the middle of the field. The incident took place after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas bumped shoulders, sparking lively reactions from both the players. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the footage, suggested that Kohli may have instigated the collision by straying into Konstas’ path.
While such moments of tension are part of intense Test cricket, the altercation has prompted questions about 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 at the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. The pace has been relentless, displaying extraordinary skill and temperament. Despite being targeted by Konstas in the first session, Bumrah remained unfazed, constantly creating breakthrough opportunities.
Final thoughts
As tea was called, Australia were 164/3 after 59 overs. With Labuschagne and Smith at the helm, 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.
