The fourth and final Test match between India and Australia took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday, and it was an exciting day of cricket. Australia won the toss and opted to bat first, and they got off to a strong start, with openers Usman Khawaja and Travis Head showing positive intent.
Australia vs India 4th World Test Match:
Khawaja, in particular, was in magnificent form, and he played a glorious innings, hammering an unbeaten knock of 104 runs off 251 balls, packed with 15 fours. The Aussie opener was at his brilliant best, and he will resume batting with Cameron Green (49*) on Day 2. Khawaja's century was the highlight of the day, and it set Australia up for a strong total.
After Head's dismissal for 32 runs off 44 balls by Ravichandran Ashwin, Marnus Labuschagne came to the crease, but he failed to have an impact and departed cheaply for three off 20 balls. Steve Smith then came in to bat and built a steady partnership with Khawaja, but he lost his wicket to Ravindra Jadeja, managing to register 38 runs off 135 balls.
Batting at no. 5, Peter Handscomb looked comfortable, but a peach of a delivery by Mohammed Shami saw him depart for 17 off 27 balls, and the pacer also took his second wicket of the day. After Handscomb, all-rounder Cameron Green restored Australia's stability with a good partnership with Khawaja, which also saw the opener get to his century.
At Stumps on Day 1, Australia had posted 255/4 in 90 overs, and they will be hoping to build on their strong start on Day 2. The match holds great significance as far 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.
Conclusion:
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 also started from Thursday. Australia, on the other hand, will hope to carry forward the winning momentum and finish the series on level terms. The tourists are currently trailing 1-2 in the four-match series.
Overall, it was a fascinating day of cricket, with both teams showing great skill and determination. Usman Khawaja's unbeaten century was undoubtedly the highlight of the day, and it will be interesting to see how the rest of the match unfolds. With plenty still to play for, both teams will be giving it their all to come out on top.
