Australia’s top-order batters showcased remarkable dominance on the opening day of the fourth Border-Gavaskar series Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Among the standout performers was Marnus Labuschagne, who scored a solid 72 and surpassed 4,000 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) runs.
He became the second batter to achieve this milestone, joining England’s Joe Root in this elite category. Labuschagne played a critical role in building partnerships, first with Usman Khawaja (57) for 65 runs and later with Steve Smith in an 83-run stand. Though initially appearing uncomfortable, Labuschagne settled into his rhythm, helping Australia cross the 200-run mark with eight wickets in hand.
Sundar and Kohli Combine to Dismiss Labuschagne
Labuschagne’s impressive innings came to an end through a well-executed strategy by Washington Sundar and Virat Kohli. Sundar’s slower delivery outside off enticed Labuschagne to attempt a lofted shot over mid-off. However, Kohli’s perfectly timed jump secured a stunning catch, marking Sundar’s first wicket of the match and third of the series.
Labuschagne’s 145-ball knock, adorned with seven boundaries, marked his second half-century of the series, following a 64-run effort in Adelaide. With this knock, he has now accumulated 154 runs in the ongoing series at an average of 25.67.
Labuschagne’s Record-Breaking Feat
Labuschagne’s innings not only contributed to Australia’s score but also added significant accolades to his career. With 4,058 WTC runs from 49 matches at an average of 50.09, including 11 centuries and 21 fifties, he trails only Root in WTC hundreds. Against India, Labuschagne has tallied 929 runs at 40.39, including one century and five fifties.
His contributions are critical as the Boxing Day Test unfolds in a series currently tied at 1-1. While Labuschagne played his part, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, struck back to put Australia on the back foot. Bumrah’s dismissals of Travis Head (0) and Mitchell Marsh (4) helped reduce Australia from 237/2 to 246/5, maintaining pressure in this vital encounter.
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