Steve Smith decided to bat with no hesitation after winning the toss. Australia started well in India vs Australia 4th Test Day 1 at Narendra Modi Stadium as Travis Head and Usman Khawaja both are in fine form. Ashwin sent back Head to the pavilion for 32 runs while Shami gave the second blow with a massive wicket of Marnus Labuschagne. Skipper Steve Smith & Usman Khawaja took responsibility and built a partnership from the scratch. They took time to settle in but eventually Smith lost his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja for 38 in 145 deliveries. Peter Handscomb showed positive intent but failed to make an impact. He departed for 17 as Mohammed Shami scalped his 2nd Wicket of the game.
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India vs Australia: 4th Test Day 1
After Handscomb, all-rounder Cameron Green restored Australia's stability with a good partnership with Khawaja. Australia posted 255/4 in 90 overs at the end of Day 1. Usman Khawaja slammed a glorious century, an unbeaten knock of 104 runs off 251 balls, including 15 fours. The Aussie opener was at his brilliant best and will resume batting with Cameron Green (49*) on Day 2 of India vs Australia 4th Test.
The match holds great importance as the World Test Championship is concerned and a positive outcome will see India join Australia for the finals, which is scheduled to be played at The Oval in June. A draw or even a defeat won't put curtains on India's qualification chances but a lot will depend on the outcome of the Test series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, which will start from Thursday.