Introduction:
India Crushes Australia by 295 Runs for Historic Win in Perth
India claimed a momentous victory over Australia, winning by 295 runs in the first Test of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Perth. This win not only gave India a 1-0 series lead but also ended Australia’s unbeaten streak at the Optus Stadium since 2018. The triumph is particularly impressive as it comes after a 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand and without key players like captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
Final Session Dominance
On Day 4, Australia started at 12 for 3, needing an improbable 510 runs to win. India needed just two wickets in the final session, which they secured in merely five overs, sealing the historic victory.
Early Breakthroughs and Key Partnerships
Mohammed Siraj dismissed Usman Khawaja early, leading to partnerships from Travis Head, first with Steve Smith (62 runs) and then with Mitchell Marsh (82 runs). Head, despite his valiant 89, and Smith both fell before lunch, allowing India to capitalize.
India’s Bowling Masterclass
Key wickets from Jasprit Bumrah and Nitish Reddy ensured Australia’s batting lineup couldn’t stabilize. Dhruv Jurel’s stunning catch removed Mitchell Starc, and Washington Sundar bowled Nathan Lyon for a duck right after the tea break. Harshit Rana’s dismissal of Alex Carey wrapped up the match, showcasing a dominant bowling performance.
Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Early Struggles and Recovery
India’s innings began shakily, getting bowled out for 150, with Nitish Kumar Reddy scoring a fighting 41 and Rishabh Pant adding 37. Despite this, India’s bowlers brought the team back into the game, with Bumrah taking three key wickets under fading light, including Steve Smith for a golden duck. Harshit Rana’s debut saw him take crucial wickets, contributing to a record 17 wickets falling on the first day.
Day 2 and 3: Building the Lead
India bowled out Australia for 104, gaining a 46-run lead. Yashasvi Jaiswal, recovering from a first-innings duck, scored a masterful 161, supported by KL Rahul (77) in a 201-run opening stand. Virat Kohli further solidified India’s dominance with his 30th Test century, leading to a declaration at 487 for 6.
Day 4: Sealing the Win
Australia resumed at 12 for 3 and despite efforts from Head and Marsh, couldn’t withstand India’s relentless bowling attack. Key wickets fell, and the Australian lineup collapsed, getting bowled out for 238 and handing India a 295-run victory.
Conclusion: A Historic Achievement
India’s comprehensive win over Australia in Perth marks a significant achievement in their cricketing journey, particularly after recent setbacks. This victory not only boosts the team’s morale but also sets the tone for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
