Bowlers put Aussies in front after another Indian batting collapse

The visitors' top order batters failed to fire once again as the hosts wrested the initiative

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

India's dismal on-field batting performance on the opening day of the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy that saw them bundled out for 185 just before close of play, was similar to the off-field chaos surrounding Indian cricket that witnessed Rohit Sharma opting out of the match at the Sydney Cricket Ground, that witnessed another record attendance of 47,988 packing the Sydney Cricket Ground for the biggest day one crowd since 1975-76.

On a pitch that became increasingly spicy as the day played out, Australia openers were asked to survive a torrid three-over spell from India's chief tormentor Bumrah, and the 31-year-old led from the front with the key wicket of Usman Khawaja to wrap up the day's proceedings.

At stumps, Australia reached 9/1 after Bumrah managed to induce an outside edge off Khawaja, which was safely pouched by KL Rahul in the slip cordon. Khawaja's wicket was a rare moment to cherish for the visitors on a day where the home pacers took full advantage of the conditions to roll India for a meagre total.