London: Australia were in control at stumps on Day 1 of the first Test against India, with Travis Head and Steve Smith both on centuries.
Head was unbeaten on 101, while Smith was on 98 at the close of play. The pair put on 199 runs for the third wicket, helping Australia to 328 for 2 at stumps.
India made the early breakthrough, dismissing Marcus Harris for 11. But Head and Usman Khawaja (51) put on 96 runs for the second wicket to steady the innings.
Head reached his half-century off 76 balls, before Khawaja was dismissed by Ravichandran Ashwin. Smith then joined Head at the crease and the pair put on a century partnership.
Smith reached his half-century off 85 balls, before Head brought up his century off 124 balls. The pair continued to bat with authority, and Australia looked set to post a big total.
However, Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Smith for 98, with the batsman edging behind to Cheteshwar Pujara. Australia then lost Cameron Green for 1, but Head and Alex Carey (10 not out) ensured that they reached a strong total at stumps.
“Stumps on the opening day of WTC23 final! Australia ended Day 1 at 327/3. See you tomorrow for Day 2 action”, tweeted BCCI on its official Twitter account.
India will need to bowl well on Day 2 if they are to restrict Australia to a below-par total. The tourists will be hoping that Bumrah can continue his good form, and that Ashwin can get more turn on the wicket.
Australia will be looking to build on their strong position and post a big total. Head and Carey will need to continue their good form, and the rest of the batting lineup will need to contribute if Australia are to post a challenging total.
Head and Smith were in fine form on Day 1, and they are expected to continue their good form on Day 2. Head was particularly impressive, and he will be looking to score his first Test century against India. Smith is also in good touch, and he will be looking to score his 28th Test century.
India need to bowl well on Day 2 if they are to restrict Australia to a below-par total. Bumrah and Ashwin will be the key bowlers for India, and they will need to take wickets early in the day. The rest of the Indian bowlers will also need to contribute if India are to bowl Australia out cheaply.
Australia will be looking to build on their strong position and post a big total on Day 2. Head and Carey will need to continue their good form, and the rest of the batting lineup will need to contribute if Australia are to post a challenging total.