WATCH: Rohit Sharma cautions Marnus Labuschagne for running onto pitch on Day 1 of fourth Test AUS vs IND

The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) he saw an intense moment of confrontation as the Indian skipper Rohit Sharma clashed with the Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne for repeated violations of the danger zone on the field of play.

Rohit Sharma tackles Marnus Labuschagne for fielding violations

With Australia dominating the opening day, Rohit’s frustration was evident when Labuschagne found himself running down the middle of the pitch, a tactic that could compromise his fitness for India’s second innings. In the 50 finished, shortly after Usman KhawajaAfter the dismissal, Rohit approached Labuschagne at the non-striker’s end and addressed the matter sternly.

Replays confirmed that Labuschagne had been constantly stepping into the danger zone, but the referees refrained from taking any action. Rohit took matters into his own hands, warning Labuschagne: “It’s not about getting the ball rolling or not; what is rule is rule. It’s been a few times now.” The Indian captain pointed out that this was Labuschagne’s third offense and urged him to play by the rules.

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READ also: AUS vs IND: Ricky Ponting, Alyssa Healy hit out at Virat Kohli over verbal spat with debutant Sam Konstas

Labuschagne takes Australia past 200 despite tensions

After Khawaja’s departure, Labuschagne took over the innings. The prolific number three batsman showed his class, mixing caution with aggression to steady the innings. Labuschagne’s calm approach further compounded India’s woes as he forged vital partnerships to guide Australia past 200. However, Labuschagne’s tactics of running down the pitch added a backdrop of controversy Despite repeated warnings from Rohit, Labuschagne did not appear unmoved, continuing to run into the danger zone. His resilience at the crease culminated in a massive 72 off 145 balls, with seven boundaries, before he was finally dismissed by an Indian all-rounder. Washington Sundar.

Steve Smith’s crucial fifty for Australia

Steve Smith emerged as the backbone of Australia’s middle order, currently scoring 67 runs off 93 balls. His composure under pressure ensured that Australia’s innings did not completely unravel. Meanwhile centurion of the last two games, Chief Travis was sacked by duck jasprit bumrah. Mitchell MarshAustralia’s struggles at 4 for 13 left Australia reeling at 246/4. However, Alex Carey’The unbeaten 23 from 30 balls provided some resistance to the late order and added crucial runs for the sixth wicket with Smith.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli, Sam Konstas exchange heated words after shoulder bump on Day 1 of Melbourne Test