India asserted firm control in the first Test of Perth, mounting a record total of 534 runs. Two magnificent centuries by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli spearheaded the attack before Indian bowlers threw caution to the wind to send early blows in the chase for Australia.
India’s Batting Masterclass: Kohli and Jaiswal Show
India began the day at 172 with Jaiswal at the helm. The young opener remained unbeaten on 161, demonstrating tremendous focus. Virat Kohli also found his rhythm to smash his 30th Test hundred. It was his first Test hundred in Australia since 2018, and he achieved that at the same venue.
Kohli batted alongside debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy in the latter half of the day as well, making India’s lead topple 500. The innings ended at 487/6, giving Indian bowlers enough time to launch attacks.
Early Wickets for India
Jasprit Bumrah made an impact immediately. In the first over, he trapped Nathan McSweeney LBW. Pat Cummins, Australia’s stand-in captain, came in as a nightwatchman but lasted just eight balls. He edged one to Kohli in the slips.
Bumrah struck again with the final ball of the day, removing Marnus Labuschagne. At stumps, Australia were reeling at 12/3.
Kohli’s Class on Display
Kohli’s innings was a treat to watch. He hit stunning shots, including an uppercut for six and a textbook cover drive. He reached his century with a sweep shot off Marnus Labuschagne. Kohli now holds the record for most Test centuries by an Indian in Australia, with seven.
Australia’s Fightback
Australia had their moments, especially after Lunch. Josh Hazlewood dismissed Devdutt Padikkal (25) with the first ball of the session. Jaiswal added 38 runs with Kohli before falling to a loose shot off Mitchell Marsh.
Nathan Lyon then stumped Rishabh Pant, while Pat Cummins trapped Dhruv Jurel LBW. India slipped from 313/2 to 321/5 before Kohli steadied the ship.
Jaiswal’s Stunning Debut
Jaiswal scored an elegant 161 on his first Test appearance in Australia. He brought up his hundred with a stunning upper cut for six off Hazlewood. He partnered with KL Rahul for a 201-run opening stand, the latter contributing with a solid 77.
Rahul was dismissed by Mitchell Starc, but Jaiswal did not relent and continued making hay until Australia eventually snapped him up.
What’s Next?
With Australia struggling at 12/3, India are in complete control. The visitors will aim to wrap up the innings quickly on Day 4 and take a 1-0 lead in the series.
