Australia finds festive cheer with a great start on Christmas Day

A brilliant debut from Sam Konstas

Australia’s decision to debut 19-year-old Sam Konstas was a master stroke. Tasked with countering Jasprit Bumrah, Konstas displayed bold stroke play, disrupting Indian bowling plans. The debutant got off to a tentative start, beaten several times by Bumrah, but his fearless approach soon paid off. Konstas unleashed a string of reverse firsts, hitting boundaries and even a six off Bumrah, his first in Tests since 2021.

Konstas brought up a brilliant half-century in just 52 balls, becoming Australia’s second youngest Test half-centurion. His knock of 60 set the tone for the innings before Ravindra Jadeja caught him LBW to break an 89-run opening stand.

Middle order shout

With Konstas setting the stage, Khawaja and Labuschagne built on the platform with constant contributions. Khawaja, under pressure after a quiet series, scored his maiden half-century while Labuschagne continued his prolific streak with a well-compiled 72. The duo held off a disciplined spell from Akash Deep and Bumrah, who kept the goal percentage under control during a smooth second session.

India’s persistence paid off when Bumrah dismissed Khawaja for 56, prompting a misfire in the over. The dismissal brought Steve Smith to the crease, and he, along with Labuschagne, took advantage of an aging ball to rebuild the innings.

Bumrah’s late blast

India got the game back in the last session. Washington Sundar accounted for Labuschagne with a strong catch to Virat Kohli, and Bumrah followed it up with a double. He bowled Travis Head for a duck and dismissed Mitchell Marsh cheaply to leave Australia reeling at 246/5.

Smith’s resistance, however, proved critical. The experienced batsman showed his mastery with controlled aggression, especially against Jadeja. Smith found an able partner in Alex Careyand their 53-run partnership steadied the ship before Carey fell to Akash Deep under lights. Smith remained unbeaten on 68, guiding Australia to stumps alongside captain Pat Cummins.

Battle of India’s Bowlers

Despite conceding 311 runs, India’s bowlers put up a spirited display. Bumrah was the standout performer with figures of 3-75, including the crucial final wickets. Akash Deep, though wicketless for much of the day, bowled tirelessly and deserved his eventual scalp from Carey.

The day ended with Australia slightly ahead, but with the pitch offering some assistance to the bowlers and India’s batting depth, the Test remains well balanced.

Short scores:

Australia: 311/6 (Marnus Labuschagne 72, Steve Smith 68*; Jasprit Bumrah 3-75) vs. India

This exciting contest promises more twists and turns as both teams battle for supremacy in this pivotal test.