In an intense opening round of the much-anticipated Perth Test bout, Australia landed the first punch. However, Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spells helped India land a stinging counter-punch and finish the opening day in the driver’s seat.A high-quality contest between two world-class pace attacks dominated the first day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Optus Stadium. Batters, including stars Virat Kohli and Steve Smith, had little joy on a pitch offering its trademark pace, seam and bounce.
A staggering 17 wickets fell on Day 1, but India emerged as the happier side by the close of play. Despite being bowled out for 150, India’s pace attack left Australia reeling at 67 for 7 after 27 overs of relentless hostility from a new-look bowling unit. Bumrah got excellent support from Mohammed Siraj and debutant Harshit Rana, who continued to be as aggressive as he was when he impressed in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah showed why he is arguably the best fast bowler going around. Delivering three searing spells across nine overs, Bumrah seemed capable of taking a wicket with every ball. Eventually, he picked up four wickets, which included two wickets in an over in which he got the big scalps of Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja. Bumrah was unplayable with the red Kookaburra as he bowled with venom, knowing fully well that India needed a good start with the ball after a disappointing effort with the ball.
