India Dominates Day 2 in Perth Test with Rahul and Jaiswal’s Masterclass

Day 1 of the first Test in Perth was full of excitement, with 17 wickets falling. The pitch was very challenging for the batters, and the match was unpredictable. But when the game moved into Day 2, the pitch changed. The sun dried out the surface, and batting became easier. Australia, who had been bowled out for just 104, could not repeat their good bowling from Day 1. India took full advantage of the better conditions.

India’s openers, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, batted confidently in the second innings. They put together a strong, unbeaten partnership of 172 runs. Jaiswal, in particular, made a big change to his approach. After being dismissed cheaply in the first innings, he played much more carefully. He avoided risky shots and handled the Australian bowlers well, even hitting a six off Mitchell Starc.

Rahul also played well, building on his solid start from the first innings. Although he was dismissed controversially earlier, he looked much more in control on Day 2. He played with patience and didn’t take unnecessary risks. Together, Rahul and Jaiswal formed the only century opening partnership for India in Australia this century, which gave them a commanding position in the match.

Their strong partnership was a big contrast to the first innings, where India had only scored 150 runs. Australia struggled to get breakthroughs, and the Indian pair showed great determination. They rotated the strike well, running smart singles, and kept the scoreboard moving. Their partnership lasted 57 overs, a testament to how much they had grown in confidence.

Jaiswal’s performance was impressive. He reached his half-century off 123 balls, showing great discipline. He also made adjustments to his game, avoiding drives outside his off-stump. Jaiswal had struggled with this issue before, but on Day 2, he was much more careful. His batting maturity was clear, and he was determined to make up for his earlier mistakes.

KL Rahul also looked very assured in his batting. He played some solid defensive shots and avoided playing at balls outside his off-stump. Rahul’s good form continued from the first innings, where his stay was cut short. He is now nearing a fifty, and his calm approach to batting helped India build a big lead.

India’s bowlers had set up this position with a brilliant effort on Day 1. Jasprit Bumrah was the star, taking five wickets and helping to dismiss Australia for just 104. His bowling was precise and aggressive, and he led the team well. His early wickets on Day 2 helped India stay on top, putting pressure on the Australian batters.

At the end of Day 2, India had a lead of 218 runs with both Rahul and Jaiswal still at the crease. The pitch had become easier for batting, but India had already built a strong position. Australia needed quick breakthroughs to get back into the match, but for now, India was firmly in control. If they continued to bat well, they had a good chance of winning the match.