India's cricket team faced a significant challenge in the initial session of the Melbourne Test as Australia's newcomer, Sam Konstas, exhibited exceptional poise while overpowering the visiting bowlers. The right-handed batsman boldly attempted reverse scoops against Jasprit Bumrah, India's leading fast bowler, who had consistently troubled Australian batsmen throughout the series. Konstas successfully executed one of these daring shots for a six, showcasing remarkable confidence in his inaugural Test innings.

Konstas particularly excelled against Bumrah, accumulating 18 runs off him in the 11th over, which included two boundaries and a six. During a drinks break, the spider-cam descended to capture Konstas, prompting the commentator to inquire about his confidence facing Bumrah.

With assurance, Konstas expressed his eagerness for another opportunity against the esteemed right-arm pacer. 

“I'll look to keep targeting him. Hopefully he might come back on and see what happens,” Konstas remarked.

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Konstas achieved his half-century in a mere 52 deliveries during the fourteenth over of the innings, but was unable to convert his innings into a larger score. Ravindra Jadeja concluded Konstas' entertaining performance at 60 runs off 65 balls, successfully breaching his front-foot defense with a full delivery that skidded off the pitch.

Despite Konstas' aggressive innings, Usman Khawaja was able to regain his form in the series after a disappointing showing in the first three Tests. While Konstas aggressively targeted the Indian bowlers, Khawaja adopted his naturally defensive approach, remaining not out on 38 runs from 73 deliveries by the time Lunch was called.

Konstas was brought into the playing XI in place of Nathan McSweeney, who was omitted following a series of underwhelming scores in the initial three Tests against India. Notably, prior to the fourth Test, the young Konstas had stated that he had devised specific strategies to counter Bumrah and the other Indian bowlers; it is evident that his strategies proved effective during the first innings.

Marnus Labuschagne, who has also faced challenges with his form in this series, made a vigorous start, remaining not out on 12 runs from the same number of balls at the conclusion of the first session.

Earlier in the match, Australian captain Pat Cummins chose to bowl first at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The series currently stands at 1-1.

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