Australia make merry on day one

Australia toyed with the Indian bowling attack in the Sydney Cricket Ground to take a commanding position in the fourth and final test of the series. At stumps Australia were 348/2 with Steve Smith and Shane Watson both batting comfortably at the crease.

Warner After completing 100 Runs [Source: AFP]

Earlier in the day Australian openers made full use of the favoured conditions and slammed a 200-run opening partnership. Poor fielding helped their cause as well. Had the catch of Chris Rogers been taken at the second slip with Australia’s score reading 45 in the first session it could have been much different. But it has been the story of Indian cricket for the last few years. And there was no exception this time round as well. Rogers went on to make 95 before playing on a Mohammad Shami-delivery onto the stumps. Before that David Warner (101) had got out after scoring yet another century, the third in the ongoing series.

India tried to make a comeback in the second session when they picked up couple of quick wickets but Smith (82*) and Watson (61*) ensured that they kept the Indian bowlers at bay. It was a hard day for the Indians on the field. There was not too much for the bowlers on the pitch as well. It was strange decision to leave out Ishant Sharma as he was the only bowler who seemed to have bowled a consistent line and length throughout the series. Umesh Yadav also had a miserable day with the red cherry in hand as the Aussies went with hammer and tongs to him. Ashwin looked impressive but there was little support from the other end that could have resulted in a better end result.

Australia are looking set for a huge first innings total. The first and foremost target of the Indian bowlers will be getting the remaining Australian wickets as early as possible after the start of the day’s play tomorrow. Otherwise things are not looking too good for the visitors at the moment.

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About Argha Ghosh

An ardent follower of sports and die-hard Manchester United fan, Argha's ultimate dream is to watch a Manchester derby from the Stretford End at the Old Trafford.