Sydney, Jan 3 (Reporter) Australia dominated the afternoon session on Day 1 of the opening Test, leaving India struggling at 107 for 4 at the tea break at the SCG here on Friday. Rishabh Pant, unbeaten on 32 off 80 balls, and Ravindra Jadeja, not out on 11 from 50 deliveries, were tasked with stabilising the innings after a flurry of wickets. The session started with India on 57 for 3, with Virat Kohli and Pant at the crease. Kohli, who looked to dig in after a cautious start, fell prey to Scott Boland’s unerring accuracy. The pacer tempted Kohli into a tentative jab at a back-of-a-length delivery, with debutant Will Webster taking a sharp catch at third slip. Kohli’s departure for 17 off 69 balls further highlighted Boland’s knack for unsettling Indian batters in Tests. Pant weathered a testing spell from Australia’s pace trio, enduring painful blows, including a 144.6 kph short ball from Mitchell Starc that struck his helmet. The incident briefly halted play as the physio attended to him. Despite the physical toll, Pant responded with characteristic resilience, unfurling a sublime cut shot off Nathan Lyon for four and a towering six off Will Webster. Ravindra Jadeja, on the other hand, played the perfect foil, calmly seeing off the probing spells from Boland and Pat Cummins. However, his innings was not without drama. He survived two drop catches, including Smith dropping a sharp chance at slip. Jadeja also showcased his trademark flair, smashing Lyon down the ground for a boundary to bring up India’s 100. Australia’s bowlers continued to dominate proceedings with Lyon proving a handful for the India batsmen. The off-spinner’s teasing lines and lengths forced errors, keeping the pressure firmly on the hosts. Meanwhile, Boland’s disciplined approach was instrumental in breaking key partnerships, while Mitchell Starc’s fiery pace added another dimension to Australia’s attack. With India four wickets down and the pitch offering assistance to the bowlers, the final session promises to be a gripping contest. Pant and Jadeja will need to bat with caution and intent to steer India to a respectable first-innings total, while Australia will look to capitalise on their momentum and make further inroads...////...