In the ongoing first Test between India and Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth, the Indian team is firmly in control after a dominating performance that has left Australia reeling. As Australia enters their second innings, they find themselves at a precarious 12 for 3, requiring an additional 522 runs to secure a victory against India, who have already set a formidable target with a total of 150 in their first innings and a staggering 487 for 6 declared in their second.
Yashasvi Jaiswal has emerged as a standout performer in this match, showcasing his immense talent with an impressive score of 161 runs. This feat is particularly notable as it was achieved in the same city where legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli have also notched memorable centuries. Kohli, displaying the prowess that complements his reputation, backed Jaiswal's success with his own century, marking a resurgence in form after a challenging period. His century, which came in the dying moments of day three, recalls memories of his previous experience on this ground in 2018, when his efforts fell short. This time, however, the scenario is strikingly different with India declaring their second innings, establishing an intimidating target of 534 runs for Australia.
As Australia began their pursuit, they found themselves in dire straits, losing their first three wickets within the first four overs of their innings. The downfall started with opening batsman Nathan McSweeney, who, after a disappointing debut, was dismissed for a duck. A wicked delivery from India’s stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, sent the ball crashing into his pads. After a lackluster first innings where he managed only 10 runs, McSweeney succumbed to the pressure of the moment. The situation worsened for Australia with the introduction of captain Pat Cummins as a nightwatchman, who soon followed McSweeney to the pavilion, edging a delivery from Mohammed Siraj. Marnus Labuschagne, the next batsman, could not halt India’s momentum and was similarly dismissed. Bumrah, having already claimed five wickets in the first innings, ended the day with remarkable figures of 2 for 1 from just 2.2 overs.
Throughout the match, India's dominance was palpable, particularly on this sweltering Perth day with temperatures soaring to 36 degrees Celsius. The Australian side appeared to struggle under the sustained pressure, with scrutiny on their performance escalating as the match progressed. Earlier, the pitch, which had shown benign characteristics, became increasingly challenging with signs of uneven bounce favoring the Indian bowlers.
The partnership forged by Jaiswal and KL Rahul provided a solid foundation for India. After a cautious start, Jaiswal and Rahul set out to capitalize on the conditions, pushing India to a strong position. Australia's bowlers, particularly Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, initially sought to avenge a listless display from the previous day by attacking the Indian openers. Yet, despite their best efforts, Jaiswal remained unfazed, displaying steady nerves and potent shot selection.
Jaiswal reached his century in spectacular fashion, albeit with a moment of uncertainty, as he ramped a bouncer over fine leg. His celebration reflected the pressure he had endured leading up to that moment, while another close call almost resulted in a run-out. The partnership between Jaiswal and Rahul became the first double century opening stand for India on Australian soil, emphasizing their collective prowess.
Despite some tight bowling from Australia, Jaiswal illustrated his intent to dominate, maintaining control over the run rate. The introduction of the second new ball did little to rattle him. Unfortunately, Rahul eventually fell for 77 runs, edging a delivery that broke Australia's longest drought—a six-wicket maiden that could only yield relief for the beleaguered bowlers.
Now, replacing Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal aimed to take advantage of the established rhythm but faltered early in his innings, unable to convert the opportunities presented. Jaiswal, conversely, continued to build momentum until he fell victim to a sharp delivery after passing the 150-run mark. Despite a valiant effort, he couldn't withstand the combined pressure from star bowlers like Cummins and Hazlewood.
In the final overs of India's innings, Kohli returned to form with poise, capitalizing on scoring opportunities, signifying his intent to shoulder the responsibility as senior batsman. After enduring a prolonged period without a Test century, Kohli struck his 30th, celebrated with exuberance as he acknowledged the crowd.
Under these conditions, the Indian team, buoyed by stellar individual performances, has positioned themselves to secure a pivotal win, while Australia must regroup and display a significantly improved effort if they hope to challenge this dominant Indian side in the latter stages of the match. The day concludes with India holding the ascendancy and the weight of expectation upon Australia's shoulders as they embark on a tall order to bridge the gap and test India's resolve.