Luckshots Sports News
November 24, 2024
India in Command as Australia Stumbles to 12/3 at Stumps on Day 3
India asserted firm control over the opening Test match against Australia by reducing the hosts to 12 for three at stumps on Day 3, after setting an imposing target of 534 runs. The day in Perth saw contrasting centuries from Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal, which helped put India in a commanding position. Australia now faces an uphill battle, still trailing by 522 runs with seven wickets in hand.
The Indian bowling attack, led by captain Jasprit Bumrah, made early inroads into Australia’s batting order. Bumrah removed Nathan McSweeney for a duck and dismissed Marnus Labuschagne (3) on the final ball of the day, while Mohammed Siraj added to Australia’s woes by sending back nightwatchman Pat Cummins (2). Usman Khawaja was left unbeaten at the crease as Australia’s hopes of surviving looked increasingly slim.
India Declares After Posting a Massive Total
Earlier in the day, India resumed their second innings on 172 without loss and declared at 487 for six, leaving Australia a daunting target of 534 runs to win. Virat Kohli returned to form with an unbeaten 100 off 143 balls, including eight boundaries and two sixes. Kohli’s century was marked by crucial partnerships, including an 89-run stand for the sixth wicket with Washington Sundar (29) and an unbroken 77-run partnership with Nitesh Reddy (38 not out), effectively batting Australia out of contention.
Yashasvi Jaiswal laid the foundation for India’s mammoth total with a superb 161 off 297 balls. His innings, featuring 15 boundaries and three sixes, included a record-breaking 201-run opening partnership with KL Rahul (77)—the highest by an Indian opening pair on Australian soil. Despite a brief fightback from Australia’s bowlers in the second session, which saw them take four wickets, Kohli ensured that India maintained complete control.
Australia’s Struggles Continue
After India’s declaration, Australia’s innings got off to a dreadful start. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah struck early, dismissing Nathan McSweeney before he could get off the mark. Mohammed Siraj then removed Pat Cummins, who was acting as a nightwatchman, leaving Australia struggling at 8 for two. In the last over of the day, Bumrah delivered another crucial blow, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne for just three runs.
Usman Khawaja remained at the crease, but with Australia still trailing by 522 runs, the hosts are facing a massive challenge to avoid defeat as they head into Day 4. The Indian bowlers, led by Bumrah and Siraj, will look to wrap up the Australian innings quickly and secure a comprehensive victory in the opening Test.
Stay tuned to Luckshots Sports News for more updates as the first Test between India and Australia continues.