India’s stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah delivered a stellar performance, leading his team to a commanding position in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth. India bowled Australia out for a mere 104 runs, securing a crucial 46-run first-innings lead. Bumrah’s brilliance with the ball was pivotal in dismantling Australia’s batting lineup.
Bumrah wasted no time on Day 2, striking with his very first delivery to dismiss Alex Carey. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter fell victim to Bumrah’s signature delivery: a ball bowled from around the wicket, angling in but shaping away after pitching. Alex Carey’s attempted defense resulted in an outside edge, safely pouched by Rishabh Pant behind the stumps.
The early breakthrough not only dashed Australia’s hopes of a lower-order fightback but also marked Bumrah’s 11th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. He finished with exceptional figures of 5 for 30, further cementing his reputation as one of the most lethal bowlers in the world.
Bumrah’s feat was particularly significant as it marked his 7th five-wicket haul in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries, tying him with Kapil Dev for the most such hauls by an Indian bowler. His consistent performances in challenging overseas conditions underscore his pivotal role in India’s bowling attack.
Interestingly, the Perth ground holds special memories for Jasprit Bumrah. Six years ago, he registered a six-wicket haul at the same venue, playing a key role in India’s historic win. His return to the site was equally impactful, as he once again proved instrumental in turning the tide in India’s favor.
India’s bowlers, led by Bumrah, ensured that the team took a significant first-innings lead. Bumrah’s fiery spell on Day 1 had already disrupted Australia’s batting lineup, and his follow-through on Day 2 put the visitors firmly in control. With the first Test finely balanced, Bumrah’s heroics have set the stage for an intriguing contest.
