NEW DELHI: The demons of the Perth track seemed to vanish for India but returned to haunt Australia in the opening Test. After a chaotic Day 1 that saw 17 wickets fall, it seemed inevitable that the Border-Gavaskar series opener might not even last three days. However, India defied expectations, piling on a colossal 487/6 declared and setting an imposing 534-run target for the hosts on Day 3.
After setting an enormous target, India had 27 minutes to unleash their bowlers on Australia, and Jasprit Bumrah made an immediate impact, breathing fire and tearing through the Australian top order.
At stumps, Australia were reeling at 12/3, staring at a monumental task to save the game. India now look poised to secure a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
RECORD OPENING STAND
Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul laid a solid foundation with a remarkable 201-run opening stand. Jaiswal, after falling for a first-innings duck, delivered a stellar 161 off 297 balls, dismantling the Australian attack and anchoring India’s innings.
This marked Jaiswal’s third century of 2024, following his double tons in Visakhapatnam and Rajkot against England.
KL Rahul, under scrutiny for his recent struggles, silenced critics with a well-crafted 77, providing India with a brilliant start.
Together, the duo ensured India’s dominance on a day that could prove decisive in the series.
KOHLI’S CENTURY
Relief and joy were evident on Virat Kohli’s face as he reached his 30th Test century with a boundary off Marnus Labuschagne. It marked his 81st international hundred. Kohli’s unbeaten ton came off 143 balls, studded with eight fours and two sixes.
Reflecting on his achievement, Kohli, whose previous Perth century came in 2018, expressed pride in contributing to the team.
“Anushka has been there by my side through thick and thin so she knows everything that goes on behind the scenes when I’m in the room, what goes on in the head when you don’t play as well or you make a few mistakes when you are getting yourself in,” Kohli said.
“So I just wanted to contribute to the team’s cause, I’m not a guy who wants to hang around just for the sake of it. Take great pride in performing for my country, just feels amazing and the fact she’s here makes it even more special,” he Kohli.
PERTH TRACK DEMONS RETURN
Day 3 saw the Perth pitch revert to its devilish nature, wreaking havoc on Australian batters during their daunting chase.
Indian bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, capitalized on the conditions, leaving Australia tottering at 12/3 by stumps.
Skipper Bumrah sent Nathan McSweeney (0) and Marnus Labuschagne (3) packing, while Mohammed Siraj dismissed night-watchman Pat Cummins (2), sealing a dominant day for India.
BUMRAH BREATHES FIRE
India captain and ace speedster Bumrah was on target from the very first delivery, showcasing his class and precision.
Bumrah dismissed Nathan McSweeney (0) and Marnus Labuschagne (3) early in the second innings, tightening India’s grip on the match.
Having already claimed a brilliant five-wicket haul in the first innings, Bumrah carried his momentum into the second.
He struck in his opening over to remove McSweeney and then delivered another crucial blow by sending Labuschagne back to the pavilion, leaving Australia reeling under immense pressure.
IMPRESSIVE DEBUT CONTINUES FOR REDDY
India’s debutant allrounder Nitish Reddy impressed yet again. After top-scoring with 41 in India’s first innings, Reddy added an unbeaten 38 off just 27 balls in the second, featuring three boundaries and two sixes.
Reddy frustrated the Australian bowlers and thrilled the crowd, particularly with three consecutive boundaries off Mitchell Marsh, proving he is a player to watch. He also hit a six each off Marsh and Nathan Lyon.
