Perth – Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul laid a strong foundation for India’s second innings, guiding the team to a lead of 130 runs by tea on Day 2 of the first Test against Australia. This commanding position came on the back of skipper Jasprit Bumrah’s superb five-wicket haul, which bundled out the hosts for a paltry 104.
Jaiswal and Rahul Shine with the Bat
Building on India’s 46-run first-innings lead, Jaiswal and Rahul batted with composure, adding an unbroken opening stand of 84 runs. Rahul’s elegant on-drive off Pat Cummins stood out as one of the most beautiful strokes of the match. Jaiswal, learning from his first-innings dismissal, adjusted his approach and displayed discipline early on, avoiding reckless shots and settling in before attacking the bowlers.
Jaiswal’s mature performance was highlighted by his ability to handle both short and full-length deliveries effectively. His whip over midwicket for a one-bounce boundary off Mitchell Starc, followed by a cheeky comment to the pacer—”You are slow”—reflected the confidence and fearlessness of India’s young players.
Rahul, on the other hand, showcased excellent technique, maintaining a loose bottom hand to guide deliveries safely. His balanced trigger movement allowed him to alternate seamlessly between front and backfoot play, ensuring control over his innings.
Bumrah’s Masterclass with the Ball
Earlier in the day, Jasprit Bumrah was instrumental in dismissing Australia for 104, securing his 11th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. His first wicket of the day came in the second over when he forced Alex Carey to edge a rising delivery to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps. Bumrah’s subdued celebration underscored his focus on the task at hand.
Debutant Harshit Rana complemented Bumrah with an aggressive opening spell. Using short-pitched deliveries effectively, Rana dismissed Nathan Lyon with a sharp bouncer that KL Rahul caught at gully.
Late Resistance from Starc and Hazlewood
Despite being reduced to 79/9, Australia fought back with a resilient 25-run last-wicket partnership between Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Starc displayed solid defensive technique while shielding Hazlewood during their 18-over stand, which limited India’s lead to 46 runs and kept Australia in contention.
Rana eventually ended Starc’s innings in his second spell, forcing a mistimed slog that Pant safely pouched, wrapping up the Australian innings just before lunch.
India in Command
India’s bowlers set the stage for their batters to capitalize, and Jaiswal and Rahul ensured the momentum continued. With a lead of 130 runs and all ten wickets intact, India appears firmly in control of the match, leaving Australia with the challenge of finding a way back into the contest.
