India delivered a commanding performance, crushing Australia by 295 runs in the first Test at Perth. In a historic display of skill and determination on Monday, India secured one of their most significant victories outside Asia.
The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy saw India overwhelm Australia with a massive margin, showcasing their dominance and adding another milestone to their list of largest Test victories by runs. This emphatic win further reinforced India’s reputation as a cricketing powerhouse on the global stage.
This victory in Perth ranks among India’s most decisive performances abroad, second only to their 318-run win against the West Indies in 2019. Other notable wins in this category include triumphs over England and New Zealand during the 1980s and 1960s. Against Australia, this win in Perth follows India’s 320-run victory in Mohali in 2008, making it a monumental achievement.
Australia, typically strong on home soil, suffered a rare first-Test defeat. This marked only the second time India has won the opening Test of a series in Australia, the first being their 2018 triumph in Adelaide.
India’s captain for the match, Jasprit Bumrah, delivered a stellar performance, claiming eight wickets, including a game-changing five-wicket haul in the first innings. Debutant Harshit Rana (3/48) and Mohammed Siraj also played pivotal roles in dismantling Australia’s batting order.
With the bat, India dominated as KL Rahul (77) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (161) powered a commanding second-innings total of 487/6. Virat Kohli contributed a composed 100*, setting Australia an imposing target of 534 runs.
Australia’s response in the second innings was thwarted by India’s relentless bowlers. Bumrah, Siraj, and Rana combined to bundle out the hosts for just 227 runs. Despite a valiant 63 from Travis Head, Australia crumbled on the fourth day, unable to withstand India’s pressure.
This resounding victory not only gave India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series but also sent a clear message to Australia and the cricketing world. India’s comprehensive performance showcased their all-around strength and set an exciting tone for the remainder of the series.