Jaiswal’s Unbeaten 90 Puts India in Command Against Australia

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Perth: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s composed unbeaten 90 and KL Rahul’s stylish 62 helped India take firm control of the opening Test against Australia in Perth, building a formidable 218-run lead by stumps on day two.

The pair’s gritty and determined batting performance, against a top-tier Australian attack, guided India to 172 without loss in their second innings, following a first-innings lead of 46.

India, aiming to secure an early advantage in the five-match Border-Gavaskar series, showed resilience after a challenging start to the match. Jaiswal faced 193 balls while Rahul negotiated 153, standing resolute on a pitch that had eased significantly since the chaotic opening day.

Dominant Bowling Performance Sets the Tone

Earlier, India’s bowlers delivered a stellar performance to dismiss Australia for just 104 before lunch. Captain Jasprit Bumrah spearheaded the attack with a devastating 5-30, securing his 11th five-wicket haul in Tests, while debutant Harshit Rana impressed with figures of 3-48.

“When Bumrah took wickets, I was desperate to do well too,” said Rana. “He sets the tone for us, and I delivered.”

Australia, resuming at 67-7, managed to scrape past the 100-run mark thanks to a defiant last-wicket stand between Mitchell Starc (26) and Josh Hazlewood. Starc faced 112 balls to add crucial runs, before eventually falling to Rana.

Jaiswal & Rahul Shine

Facing a world-class bowling unit, Jaiswal and Rahul displayed exceptional patience and skill. Jaiswal, 22, overcame his first-innings duck to anchor India’s innings, bringing up his ninth Test half-century off 123 balls. Despite a scare on 52 when Usman Khawaja missed a difficult catch off Mitchell Starc, the young left-hander remained unflappable.

Rahul, stepping up in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, complemented Jaiswal with his experience. He reached his 16th Test half-century in 154 balls, surviving a run-out chance on 42 before growing in confidence.

Australia Left Searching for Answers

Australia’s bowlers struggled to extract movement on a placid surface, with coach Andrew McDonald admitting, “The wicket has changed considerably, and KL and Jaiswal played extremely well. We have some problems to solve, no doubt, but Test cricket ebbs and flows. Tomorrow could change quickly.”

With three days remaining, India hold a commanding position as they seek to capitalize on their dominance and take the lead in the series.