WATCH: Virat Kohli drops regulation catch at slips to hand Marnus Labuschagne a reprieve, apologizes

Star India batter Virat Kohli dropped a regulation catch of Marnus Labuschagne on 0. The Australia international came out after an early wicket of Nathan McSweeney and with his wicket, the visitors could have put more pressure on the hosts, especially after getting bundled out for 150 runs, but Kohli failed to grab the ball at slips. Labuchagne nicked Jasprit Bumrah’s ball to second slip, where Kohli was stationed, but all he could do was to let the ball slip off his both hands.

At first look, Labuschagne was thought to be gone, as Kohli seemed in total control. Bumrah and KL Rahul were convinced as they started celebrating as well, but the 36-year-old immediately threw the ball, conveyed to his teammates that he had failed to grab it and apologised. Bumrah was disappointed, but eventually went back to bowling.

Watch the moment here:

One of the more extraordinary drops you'll see! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LdxmEYeWQx

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2024

Bumrah strikes to dismiss Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith

Kohli bounced back immediately, picking up a good catch to dismiss Usman Khawaja, who departed after scoring eight runs. The left-handed batter nicked one to the slips and the Delhi-born picked up a simple catch as Australia were reduced to 19/2. In the next ball, Bumrah sent Steve Smith back to the pavilion for a golden duck, worsening the things for the Aussies further.

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The former captain returned to number four after opening in the last winter but failed to make an impact as he was plumbed in the first ball. Bumrah bowled a full delivery and Smith tried to defend, he was nowhere close to the ball, resulting in the cherry hitting his plumb. Australia were reduced to 19/3 and were immediately on the back foot.

Harshit Rana looked dangerous in his first spell as well. Marnus Labuschagne didn’t look comfortable in playing him, and India would be hoping to pick up a few more wickets and pack Australia up early.