Perth Scorchers vs Melbourne Renegades : Fantasy and Preview
December 22, 2024
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The third day of the first Test match between India and Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth was nothing short of a masterclass by the Indian cricket team. with the match poised delicately after the first two days, India took command, setting a formidable total and then making early inroads into the Australian batting lineup.
Starting the day with a lead of 218 runs, thanks to an unbeaten century stand by openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul on Day 2, India continued to pile on the runs. Jaiswal, who was in fine form, moved from his overnight score of 90 to a well-deserved century, showcasing his talent and tenacity on Australian soil. Despite losing Rahul early in the day, Jaiswal kept the scoreboard ticking with Devdutt Padikkal, who provided solid support. By lunch, India had extended their lead significantly, with Jaiswal on 141* and Padikkal on 25*.
The afternoon session was India’s middle order stepping up with Virat Kohli returning to form in spectacular fashion. Kohli, known for his performances in Australia, scored a crucial century, his seventh in Test matches on Australian soil, making a significant milestone in his career. His knock was a blend of patience and aggression, leading India to a declaration at 487/6, setting Australia a mammoth target of 534 runs.
With a massive lead, India’s bowler, particularly Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj, made early inroads into the Australian batting order. Bumrah, leading from the front, dismissed Nathan McSweeney and Marnus Labuschagne, while Siraj got the better of Pat Cummins, leaving Australia struggling at 12/3 by stumps. This session underscored India’s dominance in all facets of the game on this day.
The match began with Australia in a strong position after bundling out India for 150 in their first innings. However, Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul in the Australian first innings kept India in the contests. The second day saw a remarkable turnaround with the Indian openers laying a solid foundation, and Day 3 was just a continuation of that form, with India not just consolidating but extending their lead to create one of the highest targets in Test cricket history in Perth.
With Australia needing 522 runs on Day 4 to level the scores, the task seems Herculean, especially with the pitch showing signs of wear and the Indian pace attack in fine rhythm. The match is now firmly in India’s grasp, but cricket, especially Test cricket, has been its share of miracles. The final day of this Test promises to be an exciting one, but unless Australia’s batters produce something extraordinary, India is well on its way to a series lead.
Day3 in Perth was all about India’s batting prowess, followed by a disciplined bowling performance. From Jaiswal’s maiden hundred in Australia to Kohli’s crucial return to form, the day was filled with individual brilliance and collective team effort.