Australia finished the first day of the final Test in Ahmedabad at 255/4 after 90 overs, anchored by a superb century from Usman Khawaja. With a composed performance, Khawaja reached 104 not out, marking his 14th Test hundred and putting his team in a great spot. Cameron Green also looked strong, ending the day on 49 not out, while Mohammed Shami led the Indian attack with two wickets.
After winning the toss and batting first, Australia caught a lucky break when Travis Head was dropped by KS Bharat while on just 7 runs. The opening pair played with confidence and added 61 runs before Ravichandran Ashwin finally dismissed Head for 32.
Shortly after, Marnus Labuschagne failed to find his rhythm and was clean bowled for a mere 3 runs by a brilliant delivery from Shami.
The innings was stabilized by a 79-run partnership between Usman Khawaja and captain Steve Smith. Smith contributed a solid 38 before being bowled by a clinical ball from Ravindra Jadeja.
Peter Handscomb appeared to be in control at number five, but he was sent packing for 17 after Shami delivered a stunning ball that crashed into the stumps. Stability returned when Cameron Green joined Khawaja, helping the opener reach his milestone. In doing so, Khawaja became the first Australian since Steve Smith in 2017 to score a Test century on Indian soil. India will now aim to fight back and take early wickets on the second day.