Marnus Labuschagne took one of the most incredible catches in recent memory, but he can chalk up a major assist to an Australian debutant.

As the hosts ripped through India to roll the tourists for 150 on the opening day at Optus Stadium, it was one moment late in the innings that left everyone stunned.

Indian debutant Harshit Rana edged a delivery from Josh Hazlewood into the cordon, where Nathan McSweeney got a hand on the ball but failed to hold onto it.

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However, the quick thinking of Labuschagne kept the play alive and the batter held onto the ball with one hand to dismiss Rana.

The catch drew an amazed reaction in the commentary box, with former Test star Michael Hussey among those to applaud the pair.

“This is unbelievable, great reactions from both players,” he said on Fox Cricket.

“Marnus Labuschagne, getting the ricochet … how often do you see it, the Australians had to work really hard for that Rishabh Pant wicket, and then they get two.

The dismissal was the fourth of the day for Hazlewood, who finished with the best figures from the Aussie side with 4-29 off 13 overs.

Among his victims was Virat Kohli, who was out cheaply for five in the series opener.

Mitchell Marsh was quizzed about Labuschagne’s catch in between innings by Adam Gilchrist, who exclaimed it “will be viewed around the world” in the coming days.

“I had a beautiful view, [an] awesome effort to get there and then Marn just stuck the hand out and it stuck – really good catch,” the all-rounder said.

Marsh produced a tidy short spell with ball in hand, finishing with 2-12 off five.

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins also both finished with two wickets apiece.