Siliguri – Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has commended India’s pacers for their stellar performance in the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth. He believes a strong batting display in the second innings could secure India a crucial victory against Australia, boosting their chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final next year.
India’s Impressive Comeback
After a shocking home series loss to New Zealand, India has started the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a spirited performance. Under the leadership of stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, India dismissed Australia for just 104 in their first innings after posting a modest 150 themselves. The 46-run lead proved vital, with openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul further consolidating India’s position in the second innings.
Harbhajan praised Bumrah’s captaincy and the team’s collective effort, emphasizing the importance of continuing the momentum with the bat. “India has played exceptionally well under Bumrah’s leadership. The bowlers were outstanding, and if we bat well in the second innings, we can win this Test,” Harbhajan said in an interaction with ANI.
Pace Attack Steals the Show
India’s pace trio—Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and debutant Harshit Rana—used the Perth pitch effectively, exploiting its bounce and movement to dismantle Australia’s batting lineup. Bumrah led from the front, claiming his 11th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Siraj supported with two wickets, while Rana impressed with three crucial scalps.
Harbhajan lauded the bowling unit’s efforts, highlighting their pivotal role in keeping Australia under pressure. “Bumrah and the other bowlers have performed brilliantly. If India wins this match, it will significantly raise our chances of qualifying for the WTC final,” he remarked.
A Solid Start by India’s Openers
In the second innings, Jaiswal and Rahul continued to dominate, providing India with a strong start. Their unbeaten partnership of 75 runs at the end of 20 overs not only kept Australia’s bowlers at bay but also extended India’s lead to a comfortable position. The pair displayed excellent composure, ensuring that Australia was unable to make any breakthroughs despite their star-studded bowling attack.
Eyeing Victory in Perth
With the match tilting in India’s favor, Harbhajan expressed confidence in the team’s ability to seal a victory. A win in Perth would not only mark a strong start to the series but also enhance India’s chances of reaching the WTC final next year.
As the second innings progresses, all eyes will be on India’s batters to capitalize on the solid foundation laid by Jaiswal and Rahul and put the visitors in a commanding position.
