Australia was bowled out for 104 on Saturday, with Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah claiming his 11th five-wicket haul. His efforts gave India a 46-run lead by lunch on day two of the first Test in Perth.
Bumrah, leading the attack as a stand-in skipper, struck with his very first delivery of the day. He bowled a back-of-a-length ball that seamed away, dismissing left-hander Alex Carey, caught by keeper Rishabh Pant.
India’s Fightback After a Tough Start
On day one, India was dismissed for 150 in just two sessions. However, Bumrah led a stunning comeback, leaving Australia struggling at 67-7 by stumps.
Day Two Highlights
- Harshit Rana’s Impact: Debutant Harshit Rana picked up his first wicket of the day, dismissing Nathan Lyon. A short and fast delivery forced Lyon to edge the ball to KL Rahul at gully.
- Mitchell Starc’s Resistance: Overnight batter Mitchell Starc fought back, scoring 26 runs. Despite edging one delivery between the keeper and slip, Starc displayed determination, even as he endured blows to the helmet and shoulder.
- Tail-End Partnership: Starc added 25 runs with Josh Hazlewood, strategically farming the strike and showing resilience absent in the top order.
India’s bowlers, led by Bumrah and supported by Rana, delivered a dominant performance to restrict Australia to a low total, setting up a competitive game.
