#IndiaInAustralia: Three key moments of Day one of third Test
The Indian cricket team gained momentum on the first day of the third Test match against Australia being held at the MCG. Opting to bat first, India posted a decent 215/2 at stumps. The Indian batting saw Mayank Agarwal score a defiant 76. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara (68*) and Virat Kohli (47*) remain unbeaten. Here are the key things that defined today's play.
Boxing Day Test: India defy Aussies with grit on offer
Hanuma Vihari (8) and Mayank added 40 runs for the opening wicket. They saw out the danger of the new ball. Mayank stitched a defining 83 runs for the second wicket with the in-form Pujara. From there on, Pujara and Kohli defied the Aussies.
Mayank belongs at this level
Mayank deserved this chance in the third Test. He has been in scintillating form in domestic cricket. And this innings will please both the player and the management. Mayank played a defining role in two key stands that set the tone of the day. He looked in control and thwarted the Aussie bowlers. He hit 8 fours and a six.
Pujara fires with the bat once again
Pujara has been India's best batsman in this series and that was visible once again in the Boxing Day Test. Pujara's patience and control was the focus here. He consumed 200 balls for his unbeaten 68. There was no urgency in his stay at the crease. Pujara's craft helped him to settle things down. He was involved in two constructive partnerships.
Australian bowlers toiled hard
Australian bowlers toiled hard on Wednesday. They kept things tight and never allowed India to run away with the game. 215 runs from 89 overs showed the consistency of the Aussie attack. The bowlers would have liked more wickets in return. Pat Cummins (2/40) looked sharp and earned the key scalp of Mayank. The others rallied around him.
