Navdeep Saini is in real doubt: Ricky Ponting

The series decider between Australia and India kicked off at the Gabba. Day 1 of the Test match witnessed a fierce battle between two of the finest sides. Australia won the toss and decided to bat first. T Natarajan and Washington Sundar made their Test debuts for the men in blue. 

At the end of Day 1, with valuable contributions from Marnus Labuchagne and co., the hosts have put 274/5 on the board. Natarajan picked up two wickets while Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj scalped one wicket each.

Former Australia captain, Ricky Ponting believes that the partnership between Tim Paine and Cameron Green could significantly help the Aussies to post a big total.

"It could be the biggest partnership in the series," Ponting told cricket.com.au.

Labuschagne and Wade steadied the ship

"One-one going up to Brisbane, Labuschagne and Wade put on a 113-run partnership but both got out soon after that and Australia needed Paine and Green to do what they've done and really steady the ship, then try and push on for a really big first-innings score,” Ponting said.

Yet another injury concern for Team India

"Absolutely crucial (partnership). The fact they got through the new ball tonight was really pleasing for them and it looks like (injured quick Navdeep) Saini is in real doubt, Shardul went off late in the day as well so it could be tomorrow India only have the three bowlers to go to and if they do, the batting conditions tomorrow morning will probably be the best in the game. These two (Tim Paine and Cameron Green), if they can then go on and turn this into a 100-run partnership first and then stretch it out past that, then I think Australia will be in the driver's seat of the game," he added.