Siraj’s Tactics Bring Mixed Results for India on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test
The first day of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG featured an intriguing moment between Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne. Siraj, known for his quirky on-field tactics, attempted to recreate a ploy that had worked in Brisbane earlier in the series. However, while Labuschagne resisted the bait, India still managed to benefit from the psychological duel.
During the 43rd over, Siraj switched the bails and called out to Labuschagne, saying, “Marnus… look at that,” a move caught by the stump mic. Unlike the Gabba Test, where Labuschagne had responded by resetting the bails before nicking a catch to the slips, this time, he ignored Siraj’s attempt entirely. Despite Labuschagne holding his focus, the tide turned for India just two balls later. Usman Khawaja, attempting a pull shot off Jasprit Bumrah, mistimed the delivery and offered a simple catch to KL Rahul at square leg.
India Gains Momentum After Khawaja’s Dismissal
Khawaja’s wicket came as a much-needed breakthrough for India, whose bowlers struggled earlier in the day. Teenage debutant Sam Konstas had dominated the Indian attack, smashing a quickfire 60 off 64 balls and partnering with Khawaja to add 89 runs for the opening stand. This was followed by a steady 65-run partnership between Khawaja and Labuschagne.
However, Bumrah’s dismissal of Khawaja opened the door for India, and Washington Sundar capitalized by breaking the next partnership. Rohit Sharma then reintroduced Bumrah, who struck twice in quick succession, removing Travis Head for a duck and Mitchell Marsh caught behind.
India’s comeback was marked by a dramatic collapse for Australia, as the hosts slipped from 237/2 to 246/5. Despite the setbacks, Steve Smith remained resilient, bringing up his sixth half-century at the MCG and leading a counterattack alongside Alex Carey.
Kohli’s Heated Exchange with Konstas Adds Drama
Adding to the drama was a fiery moment between Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas. The former Indian captain appeared to shoulder the young Australian opener during a tense exchange. However, the 19-year-old remained unfazed, continuing his aggressive innings that included taking 32 runs off two Bumrah overs. Konstas’ fearless batting left the Indian bowlers searching for answers early on.
Australia Eyes a Strong Total Despite India’s Fightback
While Australia dominated the first two sessions, India’s late wickets brought the visitors back into the contest. Bumrah’s precise bowling and key dismissals gave India a foothold, though Smith’s calculated innings ensured Australia remained in contention for a substantial total. As the day ended, the hosts looked poised to cross 400, setting up an intriguing second day at the MCG.
