Scott Boland Leads Australia’s Charge Against India in Fifth Test

Scott Boland led the attack as Australia dismissed India for 185 on the first day of the fifth Test, taking 4-31. India’s top order faltered as they struggled on a lively Sydney pitch with Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant among those dismissed cheaply. The tourists, missing captain Rohit Sharma, reached 72-4 before Scott Boland struck again, removing Kohli for 17. Pant, top-scoring with 40, fell soon after, as India’s middle order crumbled.

Jasprit Bumrah, captaining in Rohit’s absence, provided a late boost with 22 runs off 17 balls, hitting three fours and a six. However, Bumrah’s dismissal in the final over allowed Australia a few more overs to face India’s bowlers before the close. In the final over, tensions rose when Bumrah accused Usman Khawaja of wasting time and words were exchanged with debutant Sam Konstas.

Bumrah then dismissed Khawaja leaving Australia at 9-1 at the close. India needs to win to stay in contention for the World Test Championship final while Australia needs only a draw to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Boland’s impressive spell had earlier seen him dismiss Yashavi Jaiswal and Kohli while India’s tentative batting played into Australia’s hands.

Bumrah’s late resistance, both with bat and ball, lifted India’s spirits. Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann criticized India’s cautious approach, suggesting they missed an opportunity to be more aggressive. Australia will be confident heading into day two with the pitch likely to become more favorable for batting.