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The first Test of India’s tour of Australia 2024-25 kicked off at the Optus Stadium in Perth, with India gaining a slight edge after an eventful Day 1. A remarkable moment unfolded on Day 2 when Harshit Rana dismissed Mitchell Starc, inspired by timely advice from Virat Kohli. The dismissal ended Australia’s first innings at 104, giving India a crucial 46-run lead.
Harshit Rana wraps up the Australian innings
Australia’s innings concluded in dramatic fashion in the 51st over. Starc, who resisted with a 112-ball 26, attempted a slog off Rana but mistimed the shot, sending the ball skyward. Rishabh Pant, stationed behind the stumps, confidently called for the catch and made no error, sealing the final wicket. Rana’s delivery, a good-length ball at 131 kph, caught Starc off guard.
Rana’s performance was impressive, ending with figures of 3-48. His efforts were backed by the fiery Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed a five-wicket haul (5-30), dismantling the Australian top order. Kohli’s on-field guidance, observed during a brief chat with Rana before the dismissal, proved instrumental.
Off-field celebrations from the stands
The moment wasn’t just celebrated on the field. From the stands, Anushka Sharma and Sanjana Ganesan, partners of Virat and Jasprit respectively, were seen cheering passionately as the Indian players wrapped up Australia’s innings. Their reactions captured the enthusiasm of Indian fans worldwide, adding a personal touch to the game’s intensity.
Here’s the video:
— Kirkit Expert (@expert42983) November 23, 2024
Also READ: AUS vs IND – Fans erupt as Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket masterclass destroys Australia on Day 2 of Perth Test
Brief Scores
India’s first innings ended at 150 on Day 1. The batting was led by Nitish Reddy (41) and Pant (38), with contributions from the lower order helping India post a competitive total. Australia’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood, who bagged four wickets for just 29 runs, while Starc, Mitchell Marsh and Pat Cummins provided crucial support.
In reply, Australia’s batting lineup crumbled under India’s disciplined bowling. Apart from Starc’s gritty resistance, no Australian batter managed to make a substantial contribution. The Indian pacers exploited the Perth surface expertly, giving their team a vital advantage on Day 2.
