Attrition in the second session keeps India in the game against Australia

Indian bowlers fight back

After lunch, India were disciplined and kept Australia’s scoring rate under control. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah led the attack with well thought out plans. Siraj bowled tight lines, took advantage of a leg slip for Marnus Labuschagne and showered him with short throws aimed at his body, even hitting him in the crotch several times. This relentless pressure ensured that Labuschagne couldn’t dominate like he usually does.

Jasprit Bumrah continued his golden run in the series by removing Usman Khawaja, who scored a laborious 57 off 121 balls. Khawaja looked unsettled throughout his innings but showed his resilience and scored his first fifty of the series. However, his stay ended abruptly when he mis-hit a short throw from Bumrah straight to KL Rahul at mid-wicket. While the dismissal may seem coincidental, it was a testament to Bumrah’s consistent research.

Labuschagne holds the fortress

Marnus Labuschagne has been a tough nut to crack for the Indian bowlers and today was no different. Despite having to endure several narrow chances, Labuschagne remained unbeaten at tea with 44 off 109 balls. He was joined by Steven Smith, who played cautiously to score 10 runs. The pair will be crucial for Australia to build on their foundation in the evening session.

The Kohli-Konstas conflict

The morning session was not without drama as Virat Kohli and Australia debutant Sam Konstas engaged in a heated argument in the middle of the pitch. The incident took place after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas bumped shoulders, triggering lively reactions from both players. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the footage, suggested that Kohli may have instigated the confrontation by getting in Konstas’ way.

While such moments of tension are part of intense Test cricket, the altercation raised questions about whether it could have been avoided. For now, it’s added another layer of intrigue to an already addicting game.

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 pacer was relentless and showed remarkable skill and temperament. Despite being targeted by Konstas in the first session, Bumrah remained unfazed and continually created opportunities for breakthroughs.

Final thoughts

Reportedly, Australia were 164/3 after 59 overs. With Labuschagne and Smith in the goal area, the hosts are in a stable position, but far from dominating. India, on the other hand, will take heart from their ability to halt Australia’s progress and will look to continue their disciplined bowling in the final session.

The Melbourne Test promises more drama, skill and battles throughout the day – both with the ball and between heads.