The fifth Test match between India and Australia commenced with considerable excitement, marked by notable incidents in the initial moments. India's choice to exclude Rohit Sharma from the lineup, along with Jasprit Bumrah stepping in as captain, created a stir even before the first delivery was bowled.

The Indian side found itself under immediate pressure as they lost both openers in quick succession, leaving the middle order exposed. The situation intensified dramatically when Virat Kohli narrowly escaped a golden duck in an unusual turn of events.

The incident began with a delivery from Australia's Scott Boland, which was short of a good length and pitched around the off-stump. Kohli, attempting to play a shot, edged the ball towards Steve Smith at second slip. In a frantic effort, Smith dived and managed to deflect the ball to Marnus Labuschagne at fourth slip, who was poised to take the catch.

The field erupted with excitement as Smith believed he had taken a clean catch, but after several replays, the television umpire declared it not out, indicating that the ball had made contact with the ground. The crowd at the SCG erupted in relief as the big screen displayed "NOT OUT," much to Smith's disbelief, while Kohli, visibly relieved, allowed a wry smile to escape.

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The social media landscape was polarized regarding the catch, with numerous individuals asserting that it was executed flawlessly. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting expressed his belief that Australia was unjustly denied a wicket.

"In my view, if the ball had slipped from Smith's hand, he would not have been able to retrieve it. I maintain that his fingers are clearly positioned beneath the ball ... observe where his index finger is; it remains underneath the ball," Ponting remarked during his commentary for 7Cricket.

This incident proved to be a crucial reprieve for the Indian team. With two early wickets lost and Kohli at the crease, India required all the experience available, and losing him at that juncture would have been a significant setback.

The contentious decision represented a rare stroke of fortune for India, a team that has frequently found itself on the unfavorable side of such calls throughout this series.

Conversely, Australia has approached the match with great intensity. With the pitch providing favorable conditions for bowlers, the home team is in a strong position and will seek to build on their early achievements to further their advantage.

Read Also: Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir Avoid Each Other, Captain Seeks Support from Bumrah and Agarkar

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