Virender Sehwag satisfied with India’s show on Day 1 of Melbourne Test

Pujara and Agarwal scored half-centuries on the day.

Published - 26 Dec 2018, 18:40 IST | Updated - 26 Dec 2018, 18:40 IST

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India’s backs were pushed to the walls after Australia, captained by Tim Paine, turned them over by 146 runs at the new Perth Stadium. With the defeat, India also allowed the hosts to draw level in the four-match series. Going into the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), both teams had everything to play for as a win for either side would’ve earned them an unassailable lead.

Virat Kohli and Co made three changes, two of them being the opening pair. Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari opened and put on 40 runs in 18.5 overs. It eventually required a superb delivery from fast bowler Pat Cummins to get rid of Vihari who could only score eight from 66 balls. However, debutant Agarwal and Cheteshwar Pujara put their heads down and frustrated the Aussie bowling.

India in a commanding position

Agarwal didn’t look nervous and went on to score 76 runs from 161 balls with eight boundaries and a six off Nathan Lyon. A vicious bouncer from Cummins accounted for his wicket at the stroke of Tea. Thereafter, Kohli joined Pujara in the middle and the duo played out the remaining overs without any hiccup. Pujara ended the day, having scored 68 runs from 200 balls with six boundaries.

On the other hand, Kohli is on the brink of yet another half-century as he scored 47 runs from 107 balls with six fours. He started in an attacking manner but slowed down as his innings progressed. Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag was delighted with the way India played on Day 1.

He took to Twitter and wrote, “Very happy for @mayankcricket. Has waited for his opportunity and has made it count on the big stage. Pujara solid as ever and Kohli looking good. India will need to bat big in the first innings #BoxingDayTest.” Later Mayank also replied to his tweet.

Here is Sehwag’s tweet

Very happy for @mayankcricket . Has waited for his opportunity and has made it count on the big stage. Pujara solid as ever and Kohli looking good. India will need to bat big in the first innings #BoxingDayTest pic.twitter.com/iKtzIDXvXJ
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) December 26, 2018