Australia opted to hit, but it was India that took the lead with Rahane shuffling his pins intelligently to keep the hosts under pressure.
If it was the early introduction of off-spinner R Ashwin or the decision to stop the debutant Mohammed siraj, all their maneuvers paid off, and eventually the hosts were out for 195.
Exceptional bowling changes and really smart field placements from Rahane. And the bowlers delivered. Ashwin,… https://t.co/Gw79yuglpA
– Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) 1608962803000
Rahane leads the team in the absence of the starting captain virat Kohli, who is on paternity leave.
Bumrah (4/56) fired four Australian hitters while Siraj (2/40) accounted for two.
Australian spin legend Shane Warne was extremely pleased with the way the action unfolded on day one.
What a great cricket day at the MCG today. Congratulations to the ground crew for preparing the best wicket in the M… https://t.co/6yFogw3wHn
– Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) 1608972144000
Former India hitter VVS Laxman was impressed with rookies Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj and the new leader at the helm.
Excellent game days for India. Bowlers were sensational again, both debutants looked confident, Rahane cap … https://t.co/RYrot5hAVl
– VVS Laxman (@ VVSLaxman281) 1608966620000
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