The first day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between Australia and India at Perth’s Optus Stadium featured outstanding fast bowling, with 17 wickets falling in one day.
This is the highest number of wickets to fall on the first day of a Test match in Australia since 1952, setting the tone for an exciting five-match series.
India Struggles with Batting
After winning the toss, stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah decided to bat first on a bouncy Perth pitch. This decision quickly backfired as Australia’s pace bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins, demolished the Indian batting lineup.
India collapsed to 51 for 4 at lunch, with openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Devdutt Padikkal failing to perform. Virat Kohli’s struggles continued as he scored only 5 runs.
A partnership between Rishabh Pant and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy gave India some hope. Reddy top-scored with 41 runs, and Pant added 37. However, India was all out for just 150 runs.
Bumrah Leads the Fightback
With the ball, Jasprit Bumrah bowled a fantastic spell that fans will remember for a long time. He took 4 wickets for just 17 runs in 8 overs, breaking through Australia’s top order.
Bumrah dismissed opener Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, and Steve Smith. The dismissal of Smith for a golden duck was especially notable, as it was only the second time in his Test career that he has not scored.
Australia in Trouble
At the end of Day 1, Australia was in a tough spot at 67 for 7, trailing India by 83 runs. Their batting collapse mirrored India’s earlier issues, with only Travis Head showing any fight.
Debutant fast bowler Harshit Rana also made his mark for India, taking the important wicket of Head.
A Day for Bowlers
The first day in Perth showcased excellent fast bowling from both teams. The pitch helped the seamers, making it hard for batsmen with its bounce, movement, and pace.
This dramatic start raises interest for the rest of the Test match. With both teams struggling with batting, the first innings lead could be key in deciding the outcome of this series opener.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series begins, both teams want to take an early lead. India, despite their batting failure, feels they have an advantage thanks to Bumrah’s excellent bowling.
Australia, on the other hand, will hope their lower order can reduce the deficit and keep them competitive. With four days of play left, this Test match is balanced and promises more excitement ahead.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy usually brings memorable moments in cricket, and if Day 1 in Perth is any indication, fans can look forward to an exciting series between two top Test teams.