India Dominates on Day Two in Perth Test Against Australia

India’s openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, have set the stage for a commanding presence in the third innings of the Test match against Australia at Perth. The duo has maintained an unbroken stand, leading to India reaching 96 without loss. Jaiswal, with 47 runs, and Rahul, with 40, have built what commentators suggest is India’s largest opening partnership in Australia in the past twenty years.

Australia’s bowlers, including Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, have yet to break through the resilient Indian opening pair. Lyon, known for his prowess on home soil, attempted to disturb the batsmen with strategic field placements involving a slip and a short leg. However, the Indian batsmen remained unflustered, picking singles and doubles to steadily build their lead.

Australia’s pace attack, spearheaded by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, initially hoped to replicate their first innings success where India was bundled out for 150 runs. However, the pitch conditions have seemingly eased, allowing the Indian batsmen to play more freely compared to the earlier innings marked by a low-scoring struggle.

India’s comfortable position is underscored by their first innings lead of 46 runs, despite Australia’s efforts to capitalize on a favorable bowling start. Jasprit Bumrah led India’s bowling, securing five wickets for 30 runs—his best performance as captain outside Asia.

As the day progressed, Jaiswal continued to showcase his poise against the Australian attack. His technique against the short ball, swaying rather than ducking, drew praise from cricket aficionados, including David Meiklejohn, who remarked on Jaiswal’s old-fashioned tactics. Rahul, equally composed, focused on stitching together singles to complement their partnership.

With the pitch potentially becoming more challenging as the match progresses, Australia’s bowling unit is under pressure to reclaim control. The need for timely wickets is paramount if they are to prevent India from setting an insurmountable target.

As the teams head into the next session, the question remains whether Australia can alter the momentum in their favor on a day that has otherwise been dominated by India’s resolute batting display.