A depleted Indian bowling line-up put up an impressive fight against Australia on the opening day of the fourth Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. At stumps on Day 1, the home side was batting at 274-5 with Cameron Green and Tim Paine unbeaten at 28 and 38 respectively. The day, however, belonged to Marnus Labuschagne who smashed his fifth Test century. The youngster toiled the inexperienced Indian bowlers and scored runs all over the park. Just when Aussies were cruising towards a mammoth total, debutant pacer T Natarajan dismissed Labuschagne and Matthew Wade in quick succession, bringing India back in the hunt. India vs Australia 4th Test 2021 Highlights Day 1.

Earlier in the day, Aussie skipper Tim Paine opted to bat first after winning the toss in the deciding clash. While Marcus Harris replaced injured opener Will Pucvoski in the Aussie playing XI, the visitors were forced to make four changes - Mayank Agarwal, T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar came in for Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah. Navdeep Saini Complains of Groin Pain, Goes off Field.

Contrary to the expectations, India started well, sending David Warner and Marcus Harris back in the hut cheaply. Labuschagne and Steve Smith brought the hosts back in the contest before the latter fell prey to Sundar for 36. Matthew Wade also chipped in with a handy 45 but couldn’t convert his start into a big knock. Meanwhile, let’s look at how netizens reacted to the action on Day 1. Prithvi Shaw Mercilessly Trolled With Funny Memes After Accidentally Hitting Rohit Sharma With Wayward Throw.

Praises For Marnus!!

Shattering Records!!

Great Consistency!!

Left Arm Pacer After Long!!

Natarajan Shines!!

Some More For Natu!!

Some Records!!

Breaking Stereotypes!!

The game is indeed poised at the moment, which makes the second day very crucial. Paine and Green should at least look to take their side over the 350-run mark. At the same time, Ajinkya Rahane will want the remaining wickets to fall as soon as possible. This is certainly anyone’s match at the moment, but it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the Aussies have a slight advantage.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 15, 2021 02:16 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).