Konstas and Khawaja Steady Australia at 176/2 at Tea on Day 1 of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

In the much awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australia is off to a strong start on Day 1 as Konstas and Khawaja lead the batting against India.

With a calm display from their top order, Australia reached 176 for 2 at tea on the opening day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, setting the tone for a challenging start. In order to overcome India’s powerful bowling attack, young Alex Konstas and seasoned opener Usman Khawaja led the assault, displaying skill and patience.

Australia, having won the toss and chosen to bat, first had to contend with a disciplined spell from India’s seamers. However, with an early loss of David Warner to a stinging delivery from Mohammed Shami, Khawaja—who is renowned for having a cool temperament—anchored the innings.

Making his Border-Gavaskar debut, Alex Konstas played with maturity beyond his years and was confident at the crease. By punishing errant deliveries and skillfully rotating the strike, the right-hander stabilized the Australian innings. His collaboration with Khawaja was essential to laying a strong basis.

The spinners from India, under the leadership of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, attempted to exert pressure on the guests. Even though the pitch helped with turn, Khawaja and Konstas remained unfazed and neutralized the threat with their footwork and defensive strategy.

Khawaja proved he could cope with subcontinental conditions by reaching a well-compiled half-century by the tea break. Konstas was also very close to a significant milestone, contributing significant runs to Australia’s total. Their collaboration has established a solid foundation for the middle order to build upon, setting the tone for Australia’s innings.

In the opening two sessions, Shami and Jadeja were India’s most impressive bowlers, constantly challenging the hitters with precise lines and lengths. To recover control of the game, the Indian bowlers will need to make rapid progress in the last session.

While India will try to end this partnership and gain ground in Australia’s batting lineup, the focus will continue to be on Konstas and Khawaja to turn their beginnings into significant runs as Day 1 goes on.