India Crushes Australia in Perth to Take Lead in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

India achieved a stunning victory over Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth, winning the first Test by a massive 295 runs. The win marks an incredible turnaround for the team, especially after a tough 3-0 home defeat to New Zealand earlier this year.

The fourth day of the match was dominated by India, despite brief resistance from Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. India sealed the win after tea when debutant Harshit Rana bowled Alex Carey, securing a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Bumrah Leads from the Front

Stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah was the star of the match, leading a revamped Indian side with grit and determination. Bumrah took eight wickets across both innings, including a fiery spell late on day one that turned the game around.

Bumrah’s leadership was crucial, especially as India was without regular skipper Rohit Sharma and injured opener Shubman Gill. Coach Gautam Gambhir’s bold decisions, like leaving out veteran spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, also paid off.

Kohli and Jaiswal Shine

India’s batting heroes were Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli, who scored brilliant centuries in the second innings. Their efforts set Australia a nearly impossible target of 534 runs.

Australia started the fourth day at 12 for 3, with slim hopes of salvaging the match. Steve Smith and Travis Head tried to steady the innings, but India’s relentless bowling made life difficult.

Australia’s Batting Struggles

Australia’s top order crumbled under pressure. Usman Khawaja fell early on the fourth day to a short ball from Mohammed Siraj. Smith, battling poor form, tried to dig in but was dismissed by Siraj after a gritty 17.

Travis Head played a fighting knock of 89, attacking Indian bowlers and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Marsh also showed intent, hitting a quick 47 before chopping on a delivery from debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed in his first Test.

Despite Head and Marsh’s efforts, Australia couldn’t recover from their dismal first innings total of 148.

Bowlers Seal the Deal

Bumrah, along with Siraj and debutant Rana, kept the Australian batters under constant pressure. Rana dismissed Alex Carey to wrap up the innings, triggering jubilant celebrations in the Indian camp.

Tough Questions for Australia

The loss raises concerns for Australia. Their batting lineup struggled, with Marnus Labuschagne managing just five runs in the entire match. Captain Pat Cummins also had a forgettable outing, taking only three wickets across both innings.

Australia’s lack of preparation, with several players coming into the match after limited red-ball cricket, was evident. The team will need to regroup quickly before the second Test.

India’s Memorable Victory

India’s performance in Perth will be remembered for its resilience and brilliance. Despite missing key players and facing a strong Australian side, they emerged victorious, setting the tone for the rest of the series.

With Bumrah’s inspiring captaincy and contributions from both seasoned players and debutants, India has made a strong statement in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.