Virat Kohli’s sharp instincts played a pivotal role in India securing their first wicket against Australia on Day 1 of the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Opening batter Nathan McSweeney was dismissed for just 10 runs after a successful DRS call initiated by Kohli’s insistence.
Jasprit Bumrah bowled a full delivery that angled back sharply into McSweeney, hitting him on the pads as the batter tried to defend. The on-field umpire ruled McSweeney not out, but Kohli was quick to spot an opportunity.
Initially hesitant, Bumrah was heard on the stump mic saying, “Close hai” (It’s close). Uncertain about risking a review so early in the innings, Bumrah hesitated. That’s when Kohli stepped in with confidence, urging his captain to go for it:
“Pad pe lagi hai pehle, lele lele” (It hit the pad first, take it, take it).
Bumrah, persuaded by Kohli’s conviction, opted for the review just in time. Replays confirmed Kohli’s assessment as the ball was shown to hit the pads first, and the decision was overturned, sending McSweeney back to the pavilion.
This early breakthrough in just the third over of the innings set the tone for India’s bowling attack, with Virat Kohli’s cricketing acumen and Bumrah’s precision combining effectively. The dismissal highlighted the significance of team dynamics and Kohli’s ability to read the game under pressure.
