Highly anticipated Boxing Day test India and Australia The match began at the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with Australia captaining Pat cumin Winning the toss and choosing to bat first. This fourth Test in a close series has attracted huge interest, with the series locked at 1-1.
The reason behind Shubman Gill's absence
India made a notable change in their playing XI by dropping the opener Shubman Gill In favor of all-round bowling Washington Sundar. While India's captain Rohit Sharma The reason behind this move was not revealed at the toss, and the decision appears to be influenced by the spin-friendly nature of the surface, which is expected to favor the spinners as the game progresses.
Shubman Gill's struggles in the series may also have played a role in his exclusion. The young opener has scored just 60 runs through three innings, at an average of 20, and has appeared out of rhythm, with technical blemishes appearing during his time at the crease. with Ravichandran Ashwin Unavailable, India are likely to prioritize balance in their lineup by adding a spinner who can contribute with the bat. Sundar's inclusion provides depth to India's batting while diversifying the bowling attack.
“We were going to bat too… We have to play well. The series is 1-1 and there is a lot to play for. We batted well in that match (Brisbane).” Rohit said in the toss.
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Australia's lineup changes for the Boxing Day Test
Australia also made changes to their starting XI, giving the youngster the chance to make his debut Sam Constaswhich was introduced with Baggy Green earlier in the day. Konstas opened the innings alongside Othman Al Khawajareplacing Nathan McSweeneyWhich was dropped despite performing well in the series. Additionally, ace packer Josh Hazlewood was excluded, paving the way for Scott Boland To appear in his absence. The revised Australian line-up appeared to make an immediate impact in the crucial encounter.
Morning session: Sam Konstas destroys Indian bowling
Australia started the match strong Reaching 112/1 at lunch on the first day. The beginner Sam Constas He admired the attacking approach, using unorthodox shots such as the drop shot to unsettle the Indian players Jasprit Bumrah and Muhammad Siraj. His aggressive 60-run knock set the tone for Australia's innings before he was dismissed Ravindra Jadejawhich gave India its first breakthrough. At the break, Khawaja (38 not out) and Marnus Labuschagne (12 not out) They were at the crease, and Australia had the upper hand. Khawaja's consistent presence and reputation as a prolific goalscorer remains crucial for Australia to further strengthen their position.