India Conquer Australia with 295-Run Victory in Perth, Take 1-0 Series Lead
Team India began their Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign against the mighty Australians, surrounded by doubts. Virat Kohli’s struggles with the bat, KL Rahul’s inconsistent form, Rohit Sharma’s absence, and Jasprit Bumrah’s heavy workload made the challenge seem tough. However, the Bumrah-led team silenced critics by defeating Australia by a massive margin of 295 runs in Perth, finishing the match in just four days.
This victory helped India bounce back after a disappointing 0-3 series loss to New Zealand at home, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The next Test will be played in Adelaide from December 6.
A Shaky Start
Winning the toss on Friday, Bumrah decided to bat first—raising some eyebrows. India’s batters struggled against Australia’s strong pace attack, scoring only 150 in the first innings. But India’s pacers had other plans. Bumrah (5/30), Mohammed Siraj (2/20), and debutant Harshit Rana (3/48) bundled out Australia for just 104, giving India a crucial 46-run lead.
JAISWAL AND RAHUL SHINE
India’s second innings was a completely different story. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had been dismissed for a duck in the first innings, played a career-defining knock of 161 runs, his third century in 2024. KL Rahul, under pressure to perform, scored a solid 77, and the duo’s 201-run opening partnership laid the foundation for India’s dominance.
KOHLI AND REDDY TAKE CHARGE
Virat Kohli, after a long wait, smashed his 30th Test century, scoring an unbeaten 100 off 143 balls with eight boundaries and two sixes. Debutant Nitish Reddy impressed everyone with an aggressive 38 not out in the second innings, hitting some brilliant strokes off Mitchell Marsh and Nathan Lyon. India declared at 487/6, setting Australia an impossible target of 534 runs.
BUMRAH’S MAGIC
Bumrah showcased a masterclass in fast bowling, taking crucial wickets in the second innings, including Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, and Travis Head. His eight-wicket haul in the match proved why he is a leader on and off the field.
A Historic Win
Australia’s batting couldn’t handle the pressure, and India secured a memorable victory, adding this triumph to their list of historic wins like Gabba 2021 and Perth 2008. Despite missing key players like Rohit, Gill, Jadeja, Ashwin, and Shami, India’s resilience and brilliance shone through.
Now, all eyes are on Adelaide as the second Test begins on December 6.
