Bumrah puts India in control after Kohli, Jaiswal rout Australia with tons
Bumrah Shines as India Dominate Australia on Day 3 of First Test
India tightened their grip on the first Test against Australia at Optus Stadium, Perth, with a commanding all-round performance on Day 3. Jasprit Bumrah delivered a fiery spell late in the day, leaving Australia struggling at 12/3 in pursuit of a massive 534-run target.
Bumrah’s Twin Strikes Dent Australia
In a dramatic final session, Bumrah dismissed debutant Nathan McSweeney for a duck and star batter Marnus Labuschagne for just three runs. Mohammed Siraj added to the hosts’ misery, removing nightwatchman Pat Cummins for two. Usman Khawaja (3*) and Steve Smith will resume Australia’s innings on Day 4 with a mountain to climb.
India’s Batting Dominance
Earlier in the day, centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli powered India to a second-innings total of 487/6 declared.
The visitors began the day at 172/0, with openers KL Rahul and Jaiswal continuing their solid stand. Rahul fell early for 77, caught behind off Mitchell Starc, ending their 201-run partnership.
Jaiswal, continuing his fine form, anchored the innings with a brilliant 161 off 297 balls, including 15 boundaries and three sixes. After a brief middle-order wobble that saw India slip to 321/5, Kohli steadied the innings alongside Washington Sundar.
Kohli’s unbeaten knock of 100 off 143 balls, featuring 10 fours and two sixes, marked a return to form, while Sundar contributed a valuable 29 off 94 deliveries. Nitish Kumar Reddy’s quickfire 38* from 27 balls provided the final flourish before India declared.
Australia’s Bowling Efforts
Nathan Lyon stood out for Australia with two wickets, while Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Marsh claimed a wicket each.
What Lies Ahead
With Australia three down and facing a daunting chase, India holds a firm grip on the match. The fourth day promises high drama as India looks to wrap up the contest and take a 1-0 lead in the series.
