India secured a dominant 295-run victory over Australia in the first Test at Perth Stadium, after dismissing two key wickets on day four to leave the hosts at 104 for five, still trailing by 429 runs.
Australia, starting their innings at 12-3, lost Usman Khawaja early for just four, caught out by Rishabh Pant off a Mohammed Siraj delivery. Harshit Rana followed with a fiery spell, unsettling Steve Smith with a rib-high delivery before troubling Travis Head, who fought back with 62 runs, marking Australia’s highest partnership of the match.
Read more: India Lead by 151 Runs on Day 2 of First BGT Test Against Australia in Perth
Despite the pressure, Head remained aggressive, finishing on 63 not out, including a ramp shot over Pant for four, bringing up his 17th half-century. Siraj then dismissed Smith for 17, further tilting the match in India’s favour.
Earlier, India had set the stage for victory after their batting performance. After being bowled out for 150 on day one, they came back strongly to dismiss Australia for just 104.
Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal each scored centuries, helping India declare at 487-6 and setting Australia a daunting target of 534 runs.
With Mitchell Marsh on five not out alongside Head, Australia’s chances of a miraculous chase quickly faded. India’s victory by 295 runs marked their fifth consecutive series win over Australia. The win was a stunning response after their 3-0 defeat to New Zealand at home earlier this month, showcasing India’s resilience and dominance in the first Test.
