In a stunning display of cricketing prowess, India secured a resounding 295-run victory against Australia in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy held in Perth. This win not only marks a significant achievement for the Indian team but also extends their remarkable record in Australia, where they have now triumphed in five out of their last nine encounters since 2018.
India set a formidable target after declaring at 487-6, bolstered by impressive performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored 161 runs, and Virat Kohli, who contributed an unbeaten 100 runs.
In response, Australia struggled significantly. After resuming their innings at 12-3, they quickly faltered to 17-4 when Mohammed Siraj dismissed Usman Khawaja. Steve Smith followed soon after, caught behind off a delivery that expertly angled away from him.
Despite efforts from Travis Head, who managed to score 89 runs, and Mitchell Marsh with 47 runs, Australia was bowled out for 238. Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling attack with figures of 5-30, while Siraj claimed three wickets as well.
India’s victory places them in a strong position early in the series, requiring them to win three out of the next four Tests to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final.
This loss raises serious questions about Australia’s batting order, which has struggled consistently over recent matches. In just seven Tests over the past year, the top order has collapsed five times. Notably, both Khawaja and Smith have gone without a century for eleven Tests, highlighting concerning trends that need addressing.
The Australian team must regroup quickly as they head into the second Test scheduled to begin on December 6 in Adelaide. With a history of winning nine out of their last ten Tests at this venue—including their last encounter against India—the team faces significant pressure to perform.
Analysts have suggested that Australia’s preparation leading into this series may not have been adequate, raising doubts about their strategies both with bat and ball.
As both teams look ahead to the upcoming matches, India’s confidence will be high while Australia must confront pivotal challenges if they hope to turn this series around and maintain their aspirations for the World Test Championship final. The stakes have never been higher as the competition intensifies on both sides.
Jaiswal and Kohli Drive India to Dominance Against Australia In a commanding display on day three of the first Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India took control against Australia at Perth’s Optus Stadium.
Bumrah Shines as India Takes Control in Perth Test In an electrifying display of bowling, Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah marked his presence on day two of the first Test against Australia by taking a wicket with his very first delivery.