Australia put in a commanding performance on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test against India in Melbourne, ending at 311/6 thanks to a stellar debut from teenager Sam Konstas and a solid contribution from Steve Smith. Despite losing key wickets, Australia’s top order made significant progress, with Smith unbeaten on 68 and Pat Cummins at the crease on 8 as the day came to a close.
After being asked to bat by India’s captain, Pat Cummins, Australia was given an early scare by Jasprit Bumrah, who took three wickets, including the prized scalp of Travis Head for a duck. However, Marnus Labuschagne (72) and Usman Khawaja (57) steadied the ship, forming partnerships that helped Australia reach a healthy total.
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The highlight of the day was the scintillating debut of 19-year-old Sam Konstas. After a nervous start, Konstas found his groove and played a series of aggressive shots, including a thrilling exchange with Virat Kohli. His half-century came off just 52 balls, but he fell for 60 just before lunch, leaving Australia at 112/1.
India fought back in the middle session with Bumrah taking three quick wickets to reduce Australia to 246/5. Akash Deep also contributed by dismissing Alex Carey (31) after the new ball was taken, but Australia remained in a strong position heading into the second day.
India made a surprising change to their lineup, dropping Shubman Gill and promoting Rohit Sharma to No. 3, with Washington Sundar coming in at No. 7 to add extra spin depth.
