"Khawaja's Century Steals the Show: India vs Australia Day 1 Highlights of the Final Test!"

On Thursday, India and Australia faced off in the fourth and final test match of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Australia won the toss and opted to bat first. By the end of the day, they had posted a respectable score of 255/4 in 90 overs.




One of the standout performances of the day came from opener Usman Khawaja, who slammed a glorious century. Khawaja remained unbeaten on 104 runs off 251 balls, packed with 15 fours. He was at his brilliant best and will resume batting with Cameron Green (49*) on Day 2.


Australia got off to a strong start, with Khawaja and Travis Head showing positive intent. Head was eventually dismissed for 32 runs off 44 balls by Ravichandran Ashwin, but he helped his side in getting a good start. After Head's wicket, Marnus Labuschagne, at no. 3, failed to have an impact and departed cheaply for three off 20 balls.


After Labuschagne's wicket, Steve Smith built a steady partnership with Khawaja, but 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's wicket, all-rounder Cameron Green restored Australia's stability with a good partnership with Khawaja, which also saw the opener get to his century. Green ended the day on 49 not out, and he will look to continue his good form 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. 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 on 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, and a win in the final test will salvage some pride for them.


Overall, Day 1 of the fourth test match between India and Australia was an evenly contested affair. Australia put up a good fight with the bat, but India's bowlers will be looking to strike early on Day 2 and restrict Australia to a manageable score. The match promises to be an exciting affair, with both teams having a lot to play for.