The second wear session keeps India in the match against Australia

Indian bowlers fight back

After lunch, India adopted a disciplined approach, keeping the Australian scoring rate in check. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah led the charge with well thought out plans. Siraj used tight lines, using a leg slip for Marnus Labuschagne and peppering short deliveries aimed at his body, even hitting him on the crotch on several occasions. This relentless pressure ensured that Labuschagne could not dominate as he usually does.

Jasprit Bumrah continued his golden run in the series removing Usman Khawaja, who scored a painstaking 57 off 121 balls. Khawaja looked restless during his innings but showed resilience to reach his maiden fifty of the series. However, his stay came to an abrupt end when he mistimed a short delivery from Bumrah straight to KL Rahul at mid-on. While the dismissal might seem fortuitous, it was a testament to Bumrah’s constant research.

Labuschagne holds the fort

Marnus Labuschagne has been a tough nut to crack for the Indian bowlers, and today was no different. Despite enduring several calls, Labuschagne remained unbeaten at tea with 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 afternoon session.

The Kohli-Konstas clash

The morning session was not without drama as Virat Kohli and Australia debutant Sam Konstas were involved in a mid-wicket altercation. The incident occurred after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas bumped shoulders, prompting animated reactions from both players. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the footage, suggested that Kohli may have instigated the clash by swerving into Konstas’ path.

While such tense moments are part of intense Test cricket, the altercation raised questions about whether it could have been avoided. For now, it has added another layer of intrigue to an already captivating 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 pace has been relentless, showing remarkable skill and temperament. Despite being the target of Konstas in the first session, Bumrah remained unfazed, constantly creating opportunities for breakthroughs.

Final thoughts

As tea was called, Australia were 164/3 after 59 overs. With Labuschagne and Smith in the fold, the hosts are in a stable position but far from dominating. India, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their ability to halt Australia’s progress and will aim 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.