India’s bowlers have been in spectacular form, as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj struck crucial blows. The Aussies began their second innings with the pressure of a steep target, but Bumrah struck early, dismissing Nathan McSweeney (0) with an lbw. Shortly after, Pat Cummins, who had come in as a night watchman, was dismissed by Siraj. Then, Bumrah got rid of Marnus Labuschagne (3) to leave Australia in deep trouble.

With only two days of play left, the match seems firmly in India’s grasp. India had earlier bowled Australia out for just 104 runs in the first innings, giving them a commanding lead.

Kohli Breaks Tendulkar’s Record with 116 Catches

In another highlight, Virat Kohli achieved a significant milestone, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar‘s record for most catches in Test cricket. Kohli’s catch of Pat Cummins off Mohammad Siraj in the second innings brought his total to 116 catches, one more than Sachin’s 115. Rahul Dravid remains the leader with 210 catches.

Playing XI of Both Teams:

Australia (Playing XI):

• Usman Khawaja
• Nathan McSweeney
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Steven Smith
• Travis Head
• Mitchell Marsh
• Alex Carey (wicketkeeper)
• Pat Cummins (captain)
• Mitchell Starc
• Nathan Lyon
• Josh Hazlewood

India (Playing XI):

• KL Rahul
• Yashaswi Jaiswal
• Devdutt Padikkal
• Virat Kohli
• Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper)
• Dhruv Jurel
• Nitish Reddy
• Washington Sundar
• Harshit Rana
• Jasprit Bumrah (captain)
• Mohammad Siraj

With the match on the brink of a thrilling conclusion, all eyes are now on India’s bowlers to finish the job and secure a historic victory in Perth.

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The Indian side, which managed only 150 runs in its first innings, began its second innings with an incredible display of skill and patience from the opening duo. Their partnership not only gave India a solid foundation but also highlighted the importance of taking chances on the field—something Australia learned the hard way.

In the 41st over of India’s second innings, Yashaswi Jaiswal edged a ball towards the slips, presenting an opportunity to Australian fielder Usman Khawaja. However, the Aussie missed a straightforward catch that proved to be a turning point in the game. Jaiswal, who was already building momentum, capitalized on this lifeline and went on to score a magnificent 161 runs. This missed chance allowed India to cross the 350-run mark, setting a formidable target for Australia.

Had Khawaja held onto that catch, the outcome of the match could have been significantly different. Australia, already under pressure from a struggling batting order, might have gained an upper hand with Jaiswal’s wicket. Instead, the missed opportunity turned costly for the visitors.

Team Lineups for the Perth Test

Australia Playing XI:

• Pat Cummins (Captain)
• Usman Khawaja
• Nathan McSweeney
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Steven Smith
• Travis Head
• Mitchell Marsh
• Alex Carey (Wicket Keeper)
• Mitchell Starc
• Nathan Lyon
• Josh Hazlewood

India Playing XI:

• Jasprit Bumrah (Captain)
• KL Rahul
• Yashaswi Jaiswal
• Devdutt Padikkal
• Virat Kohli
• Rishabh Pant (Wicket Keeper)
• Dhruv Jurel
• Nitish Reddy
• Washington Sundar
• Harshit Rana
• Mohammed Siraj

First Innings Recap

The first innings saw both teams grappling with the challenging Perth pitch. India was bundled out for 150 runs, with Australia faring no better, collapsing for just 104. However, the tables turned in the second innings with the brilliant partnership between Jaiswal and Rahul, putting India in the driver’s seat.

Looking Ahead

The missed catch by Khawaja will undoubtedly haunt the Australian side as they look to salvage the game. For India, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum and securing a decisive win in the series opener.

This thrilling start to the Border-Gavaskar Test series sets the stage for an exciting contest between two cricketing giants.

The post Jaiswal and KL Rahul’s Record Partnership Powers India in Border-Gavaskar Series appeared first on Vizag One.

Key Challenges for Team India

Led by Jasprit Bumrah, Team India must win the series 4-0 to have any hope of playing in the WTC final. However, playing against a strong Australian team on their home turf presents a tough challenge, especially given India’s recent struggles.

Perth Weather Update

Rain could play a significant role in the first Test. The weather forecast for Friday, November 22, predicts a 20% chance of rain, with rain likely to affect the toss due to overnight showers.

• Thursday: 20% chance of rain in the afternoon, rising to 58% at night.
• Friday (Day 1): 20% chance of rain during the match.
• Day 3: 25% chance of rain.

Rain may dampen the pitch, giving an advantage to the fast bowlers, making conditions challenging for batsmen.

Pitch Report: Optus Stadium

According to curator Isaac MacDonald, the Optus Stadium pitch will not be the traditional type.

• The pitch will feature grass for all five days, offering consistent bounce.
• Fast bowlers will benefit from the conditions, while spin bowlers are unlikely to find much assistance.
• Batsmen can look forward to predictable bounce, making stroke play possible, especially once the dampness dries up.

Match Context

The outcome of this series is crucial for both teams:

• India: A 4-0 win is essential to keep WTC final hopes alive.
• Australia: They aim to capitalize on home conditions and maintain dominance.

With rain and pitch conditions favoring fast bowlers, the series opener is expected to be a battle of pace and perseverance.

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