Perth: A memorable moment unfolded during the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Optus Stadium when Anushka Sharma and Sanjana Ganesan, present in the stands, celebrated the dismissal of Australia’s Mitchell Starc. Their reactions captured the joyous spirit of India’s fightback and quickly went viral on social media.
India’s tenacious bowling effort was rewarded after debutant Harshit Rana broke the stubborn tenth-wicket partnership between Starc and Josh Hazlewood. The duo had frustrated India with their gritty stand of 25 runs, lasting 18 overs, and accounted for more than a third of Australia’s total deliveries faced in the innings. Rana eventually induced Starc’s top edge, and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant completed the catch, giving India a 46-run lead.
A Moment of Relief and Celebration
Broadcast cameras caught Anushka Sharma, wife of Virat Kohli, and Sanjana Ganesan, wife of India’s stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, cheering from the stands as the final wicket fell. In a delightful clip shared on social media, Anushka was seen mouthing the word “Finally” while applauding India’s effort. The duo’s reactions encapsulated the collective relief and joy of the Indian camp after a hard-fought morning session.
India’s Resilience with the Ball
After being dismissed for 150 in the first innings, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, launched a spectacular comeback. Bumrah’s fiery opening spell dismantled Australia’s top order, including the crucial wickets of Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith. He completed his five-wicket haul with the scalps of Pat Cummins and Alex Carey.
Harshit Rana, playing his debut match, provided valuable support, claiming three wickets, including a stunning delivery that bowled Travis Head. His dismissal of Starc sealed Australia’s innings at 104, allowing India to secure a vital lead.
India Strengthens Position in the Test
The better batting conditions on Day 2 enabled India to consolidate their position. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul showcased excellent composure, each scoring half-centuries and building a century partnership. Their effort gave India a strong foothold in the match, setting the stage for a potential victory in the series opener.
With such inspiring performances on and off the field, the Indian team and its supporters are brimming with optimism as they aim to maintain their momentum in Perth.
