India vs Australia Boxing Day Test: Shikhar Dhawan Seeks 'Home' Comfort in Melbourne

Indian batsmen are known to be fierce fighters on home conditions. Opener Shikhar Dhawan is no different. The dashing left-handed batsman from Delhi, who scored the fastest Test century by a debutant against Australia in Mohali in 2012-13, will now be looking to get back among big runs in Melbourne  - a city he calls his second home. (Day 1 scorecard | Highlights)

Dhawan - the typical macho man with a broad moustache, tattooed biceps and a  chain around his neck - has not been in the best of forms. The 29-year-old has scored 139 runs form three innings against Australia so far. He was also struck on the wrist in the nets at Gabba. While he battled through pain to top score with 81 in Brisbane, Dhawan would look to improve his average of 34.75. The Melbourne Cricket Ground ought to be the perfect 'home' venue for him as he is almost a local here - many also call him the 'adopted Victorian'. (No rift between Kohli and Dhawan, says Dhoni)

Dhawan lives in the suburbs of Melbourne with wife Ayesha - who is of British and Bengali heritage - and their son Zoravar. The two - Shikhar and Ayesha - were met on Facebook and got married in 2012. Ayesha was last seen cheering her husband during the Indian Premier League earlier in the year and now, Dhawan has a very special reason to score big at MCG. (Shami Plans to Send Australia Packing Early on Day 2)

Zoravar will turn one next month. A big knock from daddy Dhawan would be memorable for the toddler when he grows to understand what it takes to hit big against the Australians in Australia.

Meanwhile, Dhawan can hope to revive memories of his whirlwind knock of 187 against the same opponents in Mohali last year. As Indians look to bundle out Australians (259/5 at end of first day's play) early on Saturday, the India opener would surely look to 'home' conditions.