BGT: Top-Order Smash Fifties As Australia Post 311/6 Despite Bumrah’s 3-75 In 4th Test

Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at 311/6, with a solid performance from their top order. Teen debutant Sam Konstas stole the show with a sparkling 60. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of India’s bowlers, taking 3-75.

Konstas, at just 19, came into the XI in place of Nathan McSweeney. He faced early pressure from Bumrah but responded with confidence, launching an array of aggressive shots. His efforts included four fours and two sixes, including scoops and reverse ramps. Konstas added 89 runs with Usman Khawaja, the highest opening partnership in the series so far.

Konstas’ Explosive Debut Leads Australia’s Strong Start

Konstas began his innings with a series of audacious shots against Bumrah, including a reverse ramp for six. He also cut Mohammed Siraj for four and exchanged words with Virat Kohli after a shoulder bump. Despite early struggles, Konstas’ attacking mindset unsettled Bumrah. His fifty was celebrated by a standing ovation from the crowd of 87,242.

He fell to Ravindra Jadeja for 60, but his knock set a strong platform. Khawaja continued to play solidly, reaching 57 after an initial struggle. Marnus Labuschagne also contributed with 72, taking advantage of Jadeja’s bowling. The Australian batters kept up the pressure, reaching 311/6 at stumps.

Bumrah Takes 3 Wickets as India Fights Back

Bumrah’s short ball dismissed Khawaja, and he later took two more wickets in the final session. India’s persistence, particularly from Bumrah, paid off as they removed three Australian batters in 23 balls. Labuschagne’s departure for 72 brought some joy to India, but Steve Smith stood firm, moving to 68 not out at stumps.

Smith’s unbeaten 68 kept Australia on top despite the late breakthroughs. He hit five fours and a six, maintaining the momentum. With Pat Cummins (8*) at the crease, Australia will look to push past 400 when play resumes.

Brief Scores:
Australia 311/6 in 86 overs (Marnus Labuschagne 72, Steve Smith 68 not out; Jasprit Bumrah 3-75, Washington Sundar 1-37) against India.

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