The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) started on a dramatic note, with a collision involving Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Constas dominating early discussions. The incident occurred within the first 10 overs when Kohli inadvertently bumped into the 19-year-old opener. Despite the unexpected encounter, Constas, who holds Kohli in high regard, downplayed the incident and expressed no grievance against his idol.

Amidst the controversy, Australian batters made their mark, ending the day at a commanding 311/6 after 86 overs. Winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first, and their openers laid a solid foundation. The opening partnership between Constas and Usman Khawaja yielded 89 runs. Constas, playing his maiden Test innings, impressed with a quick fifty off just 52 balls. Before being dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja, Constas struck 60 runs off 65 deliveries, including six boundaries and three sixes. His audacious stroke play, particularly against Jasprit Bumrah, where he executed scoops and reverse scoops, garnered praise worldwide.

Khawaja, the senior partner, contributed a composed 57 off 121 balls before falling to Bumrah. The third-wicket stand between Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne added 83 runs, stabilizing the Australian innings. Labuschagne compiled a patient 72 off 145 deliveries before being dismissed.

Travis Head, returning from injury, could not make an impact, succumbing to a first-ball duck off Bumrah’s bowling. Mitchell Marsh managed only four runs before Bumrah struck again. Alex Carey chipped in with a 31-run cameo off 41 balls before being dismissed by Akash Deep.

At stumps, Steven Smith remained unbeaten on 68 off 111 deliveries, anchoring the innings with calculated aggression. He was joined by captain Pat Cummins, who ended the day not out on 8.

The high-scoring day hinted at a run-fest on a batting-friendly MCG pitch. India’s bowlers, particularly Bumrah, worked hard to contain the Australian batters, claiming four key wickets. However, the hosts held the upper hand, setting a strong platform for the remainder of the Test.