India Seizes Control on Day 2 of Perth Test

On the second day of the first Test between India and Australia in Perth, bowlers struggled to make an impact as improved batting conditions allowed the Indian team to establish a dominant position. While Australia’s head coach, Andrew McDonald, and Indian debutant pacer Harshit Rana agreed that the pitch conditions were more favorable for batsmen, the visiting side capitalized on the opportunity to build a commanding lead.

During the first day, an astonishing 17 wickets fell, but the conditions changed drastically on the second day. India, bowled out for 150 runs initially, had reduced Australia to 67/7 by stumps. Andrew McDonald noted, «I think the wicket has changed considerably. If you look at the seam and swing, it was down compared to yesterday.»

The Australian team, thanks to a resilient effort from Mitchell Starc, reached 104 all out, resulting in a 46-run deficit. However, the second day’s play saw only three wickets fall, all of which were Australian. India’s openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, added an unbroken 172-run partnership, extending India’s lead to 218 runs by the end of the day.

Harshit Rana, who took three wickets for 48 runs, articulated the importance of sticking to a consistent line and length despite improved batting conditions. «It was better for batting today,» Rana remarked. «But it was the same, as Jassi [Jasprit Bumrah] keeps saying, that you have to stick to those lines.»

Reflecting on the challenges, McDonald stated that despite the Australian team being «well behind» at this juncture, there remains a strategic opportunity to alter the game’s momentum. With 20-odd overs until the new ball becomes available, McDonald emphasized the importance of navigating the current phase effectively to regain a foothold.

The Australian coach maintained a positive outlook, despite being under pressure. «The morale is always good. It’s a pretty level team whether it’s a good day or a bad day,» McDonald said, reminding that test cricket can shift swiftly.

The absence of significant seam movement on Day 2, with only 27.3% of balls deviating by 0.75 degrees or more, contrasted with 48.8% on the first day, exemplifies the condition’s impact on play. Coach McDonald concluded that test cricket’s nature allows for rapid shifts in momentum, suggesting that Australia’s performance on the following day could be pivotal in altering its course.