India’s stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, was a master with the ball on Day 1 of the Perth Test. He rattled Australia’s batsmen with a lethal opening spell. Bumrah dismissed three key batters—McSweeney, Khawaja, and Smith. This left Australia in deep trouble after India’s batting collapse earlier in the day. With movement both ways and perfect accuracy, Bumrah led India’s resurgence. He turned the match on its head.
Bumrah’s Review Masterclass Ends McSweeney’s Stay
The breakthrough came in the 10th over of Australia’s innings. Bumrah trapped debutant Campbell McSweeney leg-before. Initially, umpire Richard Kettle borough shook his head at India’s loud appeal. But, Bumrah, sure it was pad-first, consulted Kohli and Pant before using the review.
The ball-tracking confirmed Bumrah’s instincts. It showed three reds. The delivery jagged back into the batter and hit the top of middle stump. Kettle borough had to reverse his decision. So, he sent McSweeney back to the pavilion for 10 runs off 13 balls.
The dismissal showed Bumrah’s keen cricketing mind and captaincy. Kohli and Pant helped convince him to take the review.
Khawaja Falls to Bumrah’s Sharp Movement
Bumrah struck again just overs later, this time removing opener Usman Khawaja for 8 runs off 19 balls. The delivery showed Bumrah’s skill. He could move the ball and test batters outside the off stump.
Bowling at 140.4 kmph, Bumrah delivered a hard-length ball. It was angled in from outside off and straightened after pitching. Khawaja, hopping back and playing away from his body, nicked the ball to second slip. Virat Kohli took a sharp, low catch.
The dismissal left Australia at 25/2, with both openers back in the pavilion. Bumrah’s accuracy and control had the Australians on the back foot.
Steve Smith Falls for a Golden Duck
Bumrah’s best moment came when he bowled out Australia’s top batter, Steve Smith, on the first ball. Bumrah bowled a length delivery that pitched outside off. It jagged back sharply to hit Smith on the front pad.
Smith, shuffling on his stumps and staying deep in his crease, misjudged the line. He was beaten on the inside edge. The ball hit him square in front of the stumps. Umpire Kettle borough raised his finger immediately.
Smith briefly consulted Labuschagne but chose not to review. He walked back for a golden duck. The delivery was unplayable. It showcased Bumrah’s mastery of seam movement. Australia was left reeling at 25/3.
Bumrah’s Spell Sparks Indian Fightback
Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spell left Australia’s batting in tatters, with figures of 3/14 in his first five overs. The right-arm pacer used the Perth conditions perfectly. He swung the ball both ways and hit the right lengths.
Key Stats from Bumrah’s Spell:
- McSweeney: LBW for 10 (13 balls) after a successful review.
- Khawaja: Caught at second slip by Kohli for 8 (19 balls).
- Smith: LBW for 0 (1 ball).
With India defending a modest total, Bumrah’s early strikes gave his side a chance. They silenced the Perth crowd and shifted the momentum to India.
Australia in Deep Trouble
At the time of writing, Australia’s batting lineup was wobbling under Bumrah’s onslaught. Losing three quick wickets, including Khawaja and Smith, has left the hosts vulnerable. The pitch still helps the bowlers.
India was bowled out for a low score earlier. Now, Bumrah’s brilliance with the ball has them poised to claw back into the contest.
Final Thoughts
Jasprit Bumrah’s sensational opening spell in the Perth Test has revived India’s fightback. He dismantled Australia’s top order with precision and pace. Bumrah’s skill in high-pressure moments is clear. He dismissed Steve Smith for a golden duck. His use of reviews showcased his sharp captaincy instincts.
As the Perth Test unfolds, Bumrah’s early breakthroughs will likely be a defining factor in the match. Can India capitalize on this momentum and push for a strong first-innings lead? Only time will tell, but for now, Bumrah has secured India’s position in the contest.
