WATCH: Steve Smith’s Frenzied Reaction to Mohammed Shami’s Delivery Leaves Netizens in Splits

London: The first day of the highly anticipated World Test Championship final at The Oval witnessed a dominating performance by the Aussies. Opting to bowl first, India, led by Rohit Sharma, unleashed a formidable pace attack, spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami, who swiftly claimed crucial wickets. However, Australia showed resilience as Travis Head notched up a century and Steve Smith showcased his skillful batting prowess, enabling their team to gain the upper hand in the match. Notably, Smith’s expressive face while facing Shami and his compatriots added an intriguing dimension to his performance.

 

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At the close of play on Day 1, Australia reached an impressive total of 327 for 3. Travis Head remained unbeaten on 146, while Steve Smith was batting at an impressive 95. The final session proved fruitful for Australia, as they added 157 runs in 34 overs without losing a wicket. The remarkable unbroken fourth-wicket partnership between Head and Smith contributed 251 runs to their team’s tally. Earlier in the day, Australia, after being invited to bat, scored 97 runs in the post-lunch session, losing only one wicket in 28 overs. By lunch, they had reached 73 for 2, with opener David Warner having scored a brisk 43 off 60 deliveries. The Indian pacers, namely Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur, each managed to claim a wicket on the eventful first day.

Brief Scores after Day 1: Australia 1st Innings – 327 for 3 in 85 overs (David Warner 43, Travis Head 146*, Steve Smith 95*; Mohammed Siraj 1/67, Shardul Thakur 1/75, Mohammed Shami 1/77).