Steve Smith and Virat Kohli have been carrying the hopes of their nations for more than a decade now, and so it proved again on day two of the Boxing Day Test — but by stumps, one had risen to the occasion and the other had imploded.

Steve Smith’s stylish century powered Australia to a strong position against India at lunch on the second day of the fourth test of the five-match series.

Steve Smith shared a 112-run partnership with Pat Cummins on his way to 140 off 197 deliveries as Australia took control on day two of their fourth test against India, for whom Jasprit Bumrah claimed four wickets.

Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal were doing a brilliant rescue act for India, putting on a century stand, but the latter's run-out triggered a mini-collapse in the fourth Test at the MCG

Virat Kohli, after being penalized for an incident with an Australian debutant, delivered an inspiring speech to his team ahead of the Boxing Day Test's second day. Irfan Pathan praised Kohli's motivational efforts aimed at boosting team morale amidst a challenging match against Australia.

Virat Kohli walked towards Steve Smith to congratulate the Australia batter after he scored his 34th test century in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

Star Indian batter Virat Kohli won hearts with his special gesture towards Steve Smith after the Australian great hit his 34th Test hundred on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test.

About 24 hours after his ugly incident with the teenage debutant, Kohli was caught up in another concerning scene at the MCG as Australia looked to take the game away from India.