India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal displayed both confidence and aggression on Day 2 of the first Test against Australia in Perth. The young batter not only impressed with his batting but also engaged in an unexpected verbal duel with Australian pace ace Mitchell Starc. Jaiswal’s remarks highlighted his growing confidence in handling high-pressure situations in Australian conditions.
The Banter Unfolds
The incident occurred during the second innings after Jaiswal hit Starc for a spectacular boundary over square leg. In the same over, after defending a delivery off the back foot, Jaiswal cheekily remarked to Starc, “It’s coming slow,” as the pacer walked back to his bowling mark with a smile. The remark appeared to be a response to Starc’s earlier comment aimed at India’s debutant pacer Harshit Rana. Earlier in the day, Starc had told Rana, “I bowl faster than you and have a long memory,” following a spell of short-pitched deliveries from the Indian seamer.
Jaiswal’s comeback carried added significance, given that Starc had dismissed him for a duck in the first innings. The 21-year-old’s ability to respond boldly without provocation showcased his growing maturity and fearless approach on the field.
India Tightens Grip on the Match
India had the upper hand after a chaotic first day where 17 wickets fell. Resuming their innings at 67-7, Australia managed to scrape together 104 runs, thanks largely to Mitchell Starc’s gritty 26 off 112 balls and a 25-run last-wicket stand with Josh Hazlewood. Despite their resistance, India carried a 46-run lead into their second innings.
India’s opening pair, Jaiswal and KL Rahul, capitalized on the advantage, posting the first century partnership for India in Australia in 20 years. Jaiswal, initially cautious after his first-innings failure, found his rhythm with a boundary off Starc that seemed to ease his nerves. The duo showcased excellent shot selection and running between the wickets as their confidence grew. Highlights of the innings included a classic straight drive by Rahul off Pat Cummins and an exquisite sweep shot by Jaiswal against Starc.
Australia’s Struggles Continue
Earlier in the day, Jasprit Bumrah had dismantled Australia’s batting lineup with a brilliant five-wicket haul (5-30), his 11th in Test cricket. Harshit Rana also contributed with three wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Starc, who eventually edged to Rishabh Pant.
The Australian lower order showed resilience, with Nathan Lyon surviving 16 fierce deliveries and Hazlewood joining Starc for a valuable last-wicket stand. However, Bumrah’s relentless pace and Rana’s sharp bowling proved too much for the hosts, leaving them in dire straits.
India’s Commanding Position
Jaiswal and Rahul’s partnership further strengthened India’s position as they built on their lead. With the pitch offering less movement than on Day 1, the Indian openers punished any loose deliveries and steadily increased their dominance. The lack of inspiration from Australia’s bowlers only added to the visitors’ advantage as the partnership flourished.
As the match progressed, India’s control became evident, with their bowlers and batters working seamlessly to keep the hosts on the back foot. While Starc’s fighting knock stood out for Australia, Jaiswal’s confidence and aggression, both with the bat and in his verbal exchange, became a highlight of the day.
The Test continues with India looking to extend their dominance and secure a strong position in the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
