India began their Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign in outstanding fashion, defeating Australia by a massive 295 runs in the first Test in Perth. This commanding victory not only gave India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series but also ended Australia’s unbeaten streak at the Optus Stadium since 2018.
Behold Team India, the only team to have triumphed over Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth in Tests! pic.twitter.com/zIQBlzmkMU
— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) November 25, 2024
The Indian team displayed exceptional courage after suffering a 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand last month. Despite missing key players Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, the visitors produced a remarkable all-round performance.
Take A Bow..Team India..🙏🏻🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/EUU7D89uje
— RVCJ Media (@RVCJ_FB) November 25, 2024
After being bowled out for 150 on Day 1, India fought back with Jasprit Bumrah's energetic spell under the fading light, taking three crucial wickets, including Steve Smith for a golden duck. Debutants Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy also impressed, contributing to India’s efforts with the ball and bat, respectively.
In their second inning, India capitalized on a 46-run lead. Yashasvi Jaiswal bounced back from his first-inning duck to score a magnificent 161, while KL Rahul added a solid 77. Together, they built a 201-run opening partnership. Virat Kohli then added to Australia’s woes, scoring his 30th Test century as India declared at 487/6, setting Australia a daunting target of 510 runs.
Raw emotions from the dugout as Virat Kohli reaches his 30th Test TON!
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 24, 2024
This one's a treat for the eyes 🤗#TeamIndia | #AUSvIND | @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/PD2kCIgvRk
Australia, starting Day 4 at 12/3, faced an uphill battle. Despite resistance from Travis Head (89) and Mitchell Marsh (47), India’s bowlers dominated. Mohammed Siraj, Bumrah, and Washington Sundar struck at crucial moments, dismantling Australia’s batting lineup. Harshit Rana sealed the win shortly after Tea, dismissing Alex Carey for 36.
History Made Down Under! 🇮🇳✨
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 25, 2024
Team India seals a memorable victory & won by 295 runs, becoming the FIRST team to defeat Australia at the Optus Stadium, Perth! 🏟💥
With this India's biggest Test win (by margin of runs) in Australia.
A moment of pride, determination, and… pic.twitter.com/aczwnzUN3d
This victory not only showcased India's depth and determination but also set the tone for the series. With their bowlers and batters in excellent form, India has established themselves as strong contenders to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.