India’s Thrilling Test Victory Against Australia in Perth: A Statement Win Under Jasprit Bumrah’s Captaincy
After a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home against New Zealand under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, Team India bounced back in sensational fashion with a memorable win against Australia in the first Test at Perth. The credit for this victory belongs not only to Jasprit Bumrah’s brilliant captaincy and match-winning bowling but also to the spirited performances of India’s young and determined players.
On a pitch that tested batters and bowlers alike, India showed resilience. The match started on a shaky note, with 17 wickets falling on the first day alone. India’s first innings folded for just 150 runs, with Nitish Kumar Reddy’s debut knock of 41 proving vital in providing some respectability. Australia, however, struggled even more, getting bundled out for 104 as Bumrah’s fiery spell of 5/30 dismantled their top and middle order.
India’s second innings turned the tide. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s majestic 161 and KL Rahul’s composed 77 laid a solid foundation. Virat Kohli, anchoring the innings, reached an unbeaten 100, his century a reminder of his class and experience under pressure. Their combined efforts powered India to a commanding 487/6 declared. The 201-run opening partnership between Rahul and Jaiswal was a game-changer, breaking Australia’s spirit early in the innings.
Australia, set a mammoth target, fought back through Travis Head’s gritty 89 and Mitchell Marsh’s 47. But they could not withstand India’s relentless bowling. Bumrah again led from the front, claiming 3/42, while Siraj and Harshit Rana supported admirably, sharing four wickets between them. Washington Sundar’s crucial breakthroughs and Nitish Kumar Reddy’s all-round contribution added to the team’s dominance. Australia was dismissed for 238, handing India a famous victory.
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Scorecard Summary
India 1st innings: 150 all out
Australia 1st innings: 104 all out
India 2nd innings: 487/6 declared
Australia 2nd innings: 238 all out
Bowling Positives
Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery pace, accuracy, and leadership set the tone. He consistently troubled the Australian batters, extracting bounce and movement on a challenging Perth wicket. Mohammed Siraj and debutant Harshit Rana provided excellent support, showing hunger and skill. Washington Sundar and Nitish Reddy proved their worth as reliable all-rounders, answering critics who questioned their selection over seasoned players like Jadeja and Ashwin.
Batting Positives
Despite initial struggles in the first innings, the second innings showcased the depth and grit of India’s batting. The Rahul-Jaiswal partnership and Kohli’s century demonstrated India’s ability to build and capitalise on key moments. Debutant Nitish Reddy’s composure and crucial contributions in both innings hinted at a bright future.
The Big Question
With Rohit Sharma expected to return, the selectors now face a dilemma: should Bumrah continue as captain, given his inspired leadership and the team’s unity under him, or will Rohit reassume the role? The coming matches will provide clarity, but Bumrah’s success has surely made the decision tougher.
This victory is a testament to the new energy within the team and a signal to the cricketing world: India is ready to fight and win anywhere, even in the toughest conditions.