Jaiswal And Kohli Lead India’s Charge in Perth Test as Bumrah Strikes Late Against Australia

India in Command After Jaiswal and Kohli’s Stellar Centuries, Bumrah Strikes Late

India is inching closer to victory in the first Test against Australia in Perth, thanks to Yashasvi Jaiswal’s brilliant knock of 161 and a timely century from Virat Kohli. On Day 3, India declared their second innings at 487/6 after Kohli reached his 100 in style, signaling a resounding comeback to form.

With a daunting 534-run target to chase, Australia faced an uphill task to survive the final 30 minutes of play before stumps. However, they crumbled under pressure, starting with rookie Nathan McSweeney’s duck to Jasprit Bumrah. Nightwatchman Pat Cummins soon followed, falling for just two after edging Mohammed Siraj to Kohli at slip. Bumrah then removed Marnus Labuschagne for three, leaving Australia in turmoil at 12/3, with Usman Khawaja still at the crease on three not-out. "India vs Australia first Test"

The day belonged to 22-year-old Jaiswal, who demonstrated remarkable resilience in his 297-ball innings, smashing 15 boundaries and 3 sixes. Though he seemed poised for a double century, Jaiswal was dismissed after edging a Mitchell Marsh delivery to Steve Smith at point. As he left the field to a standing ovation, Jaiswal reflected on his achievement, saying, "All my centuries are special, but this one against Australia feels particularly significant. I’ve worked tirelessly for this moment." "Jaiswal century in Australia"

Kohli, at the other end, ended his dry spell with his 30th Test century, silencing critics who had questioned his place in the squad. The 36-year-old’s knock was his first Test hundred since July of the previous year. Alongside Jaiswal, Kohli led India to a dominant position, even as Australia removed Devdutt Padikkal (25), Rishabh Pant (1), Dhruv Jurel (1), and Washington Sundar (29). India’s 201-run opening stand between Jaiswal and KL Rahul (77) also broke a long-standing record for India in Australia. "Virat Kohli Test century"

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood commented on the state of the game, saying, "The batsmen need to stick to their plans tomorrow and bat time. It’s a long series, and we need to tire their key quicks. If a few players find form and get to 80 or 100, that will be a positive to take away."

India resumed on Day 3 after having seized control on Day 2 when Australia was dismissed for just 104 in response to India’s 150. Jaiswal, who resumed on 90, reached his century in dramatic fashion with a six off Hazlewood, leaving the crowd in awe. This was Jaiswal’s fourth Test ton and his first on Australian soil. "Jasprit Bumrah late wickets"

After a standout 171 on debut against the West Indies and two double centuries against England, Jaiswal had already established himself as a key player in India’s top order. Despite a disappointing duck in the first innings, Jaiswal answered any doubts about his abilities in Australian conditions with his exceptional performance.

Australia eventually got some reward with Rahul’s dismissal, caught behind off Mitchell Starc for 77. Rahul, standing in for Rohit Sharma, who stayed home for the birth of his second child, had supported his young partner well. Rohit is set to return for the second Test in Adelaide, which will pose a selection dilemma for India. "India's cricket performance"

Australia struck again right after lunch, with Padikkal edging Hazlewood to Smith at slip. Jaiswal’s departure sparked a mini-collapse, with Pant stumped by wicketkeeper Alex Carey and Jurel dismissed lbw to Pat Cummins. However, Kohli and Sundar steadied the ship, adding 89 for the sixth wicket before Nathan Lyon dismissed Sundar. "cricket match highlights India Australia"

The introduction of Nitish Kumar Reddy, who joined Kohli at the crease, saw India launch an aggressive onslaught against an exhausted Australian attack. "Perth Test 2024"

FAQ's

1. How did Yashasvi Jaiswal's performance impact India’s innings in the Perth Test?

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s spectacular 161 runs were the cornerstone of India’s dominance in the first Test against Australia. His steady 297-ball innings showcased maturity, and he hit 15 boundaries and 3 sixes. Jaiswal's performance was especially significant as it marked his first Test century on Australian soil, underlining his growing stature in international cricket.

2. What does Virat Kohli’s century in the Perth Test mean for his career?

Virat Kohli’s 30th Test century in Perth was a much-needed milestone after a period of criticism. His 100 runs not only helped India gain a commanding position but also signified a return to form for the 36-year-old. Kohli's century was his first since July of the previous year, putting to rest doubts about his ability to perform at the highest level.

3. How did India’s bowlers dismantle Australia’s top order on Day 3?

India’s bowlers, especially Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, executed a brilliant attack in the final session of Day 3. Australia's top order crumbled under pressure, with Bumrah taking key wickets, including that of Marnus Labuschagne. By the close of play, Australia was struggling at 12/3, with only Usman Khawaja standing unbeaten, leaving India in a commanding position.

Conclusion

India’s performance in the Perth Test against Australia has been nothing short of exceptional. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli played pivotal roles, with Jaiswal’s elegant 161 and Kohli’s vintage century leading the charge. Their stellar knocks have put India in a commanding position, as they now look set to close in on a memorable victory. The late breakthroughs from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj further tilted the balance in India’s favor, leaving Australia with a daunting task ahead.

With India’s bowlers finding their rhythm and key players like Jaiswal and Kohli stepping up when needed, the visitors are in complete control. As the match moves into its final stages, Australia faces an uphill battle, and India’s victory looks more likely with each passing over. This game has shown the depth and resilience of the Indian team, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting and hard-fought series.