The first Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth has taken a dramatic turn for India. After a great comeback by India’s bowlers, the visitors now control the game. After a tough first innings where India scored only 150, Jasprit Bumrah and the bowlers struck back. They bowled out Australia for just 104 runs. This gave India a key advantage.
With a 400-plus lead, India seems set to win. Their batters are now consolidating the position. However, cracks on the Perth pitch are widening. This presents a challenge for both teams.
Steve Smith Warns Teammates About Widening Pitch Cracks
After a golden duck in the first innings, Aussie star batter Steve Smith worries about the Perth pitch. It’s deteriorating. After the second session, Smith said the pitch’s cracks have opened up, especially in the last 45 minutes. This makes things worse for the Australian batsmen.
“The cracks have started to appear in that last 45 minutes. Not a nice sign for us, but we need to bat well.” – Steve Smith
Steven Smith said, “the cracks have started to appear in that last 45 minutes. Not a nice sign for us, but we need to bat well (smiles)”. (Fox Cricket). pic.twitter.com/0ggKeMn6ZF
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) November 24, 2024
Smith’s warning highlights the challenges Australia will face in chasing an unlikely target. To mount a record-breaking comeback, the hosts need a big score in the second innings. Smith must lead the effort.
India’s Commanding Position: Yashasvi Jaiswal Stars with a Stunning 161
India’s batting response to their low first-innings total has been spectacular, led by the brilliance of Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young opener smashed a sensational 161, setting the stage for India’s dominance. Jaiswal, with strong support from KL Rahul, helped India. They made a 201-run opening stand. This laid the foundation for the visitors’ second innings.
At the time of writing, India still has five wickets in hand and appears in no hurry to declare. With a big lead and dangerous cracks on the pitch, India likely aims to bat Australia out of the game.
Key Match Statistics
- India’s First Innings Total: 150
- Australia’s First Innings Total: 104
- India’s Second Innings Lead: Over 400 runs (and counting)
- Star Performers:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: 161 runs
- Jasprit Bumrah & Co.: Bowled Australia out for 104
Can Steve Smith Lead Australia’s Fightback?
Australia’s hopes of a comeback rest on their experienced batters, especially Steve Smith. His first-innings golden duck has increased pressure on him to perform in the second innings. With the pitch worsening and India’s bowlers in top form, Australia’s batters face a tough task.
Smith’s caution about the widening cracks on the Perth surface could be a decisive factor in the match. Perth’s pitches are notorious for becoming unpredictable as cracks widen. Batting becomes very hard, especially against top bowlers like Bumrah and Shami.
