By dubailife 
India’s Openers Dominate Australia as Lead Swells in Perth Test
India’s openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, guiding their team to 172 without loss at stumps on day two of the first Test against Australia in Perth. Their unbroken partnership extended India’s lead to a formidable 218 runs, putting the tourists firmly in control.
Earlier in the day, stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah claimed a sensational 5-30, helping dismiss Australia for 104 during the morning session. This followed India’s first-innings total of 150 on a seam-friendly wicket that saw 17 wickets tumble on day one.
Jaiswal and Rahul Shine
The young Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 90, while the experienced Rahul ended the day on 62, as the Australian bowlers struggled to break through after lunch. Their steady approach and skillful shot-making ensured no wickets fell during the day, marking a stark contrast to the chaotic scenes of the first innings.
India pacer Harshit Rana summarized the team’s mindset:
“We have not yet thought [about the victory target]. The idea is to bat on.”
Shots of the Day
The match’s highlight moments included:
- KL Rahul’s elegant straight drive off Pat Cummins in the 13th over, a masterclass in timing.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal’s audacious upper-cut over the wicketkeeper against Cummins and a towering six off Mitchell Starc over fine leg.
- Jaiswal further underlined his dominance by launching Nathan Lyon for a maximum over long-on, capping off India’s stellar day.
Amid these fireworks, Rahul’s gritty 16th Test fifty drew loud applause, silencing critics and showcasing his resilience.
Australia’s Struggles
Australian skipper Pat Cummins and his bowlers were left searching for answers as part-timers Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne also failed to make an impact.
Reflecting on the day, Australia’s coach Andrew McDonald admitted:
“We’ve got some problems to solve. India are clearly in the driver’s seat at the moment.”
Bumrah’s Brilliance
The day began with a fiery spell from Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed his 11th Test five-wicket haul. Bumrah’s standout delivery—a back-of-a-length seamer—dismissed Alex Carey (21) with a nick to Rishabh Pant.
Mitchell Starc, batting at number nine, showed rare resistance for the hosts, scoring 26 off 112 balls despite taking blows to the helmet and shoulder. His defiance, however, was cut short by Rana, who finished with impressive figures of 3-48.
Dubai Cricket Fans Keep Close Tabs
Cricket enthusiasts in Dubai are eagerly following the match, as the UAE remains a hub for cricketing fervor. With India in a commanding position, Dubai fans are already discussing the possibility of a memorable victory in the series opener.
Source : Khaleejtimes