India showcased a commanding performance in their second innings of the first Test against Australia, thanks to stunning centuries from opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and former captain Virat Kohli. The team declared their innings at an imposing 487 for 6, setting Australia a mammoth target of 534 runs.

Having started the third day at 172 without loss, India’s innings was anchored by Jaiswal, who bounced back after a first-innings duck to score a sensational 161. Facing 297 balls, the opener struck 15 boundaries and three sixes, exhibiting immense patience and skill.

Virat Kohli contributed with an unbeaten 100 off 143 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes, further solidifying India’s dominance. KL Rahul also played a pivotal role with a composed 77 off 176 deliveries, featuring five boundaries. Adding to the fireworks, Nitish Kumar Reddy smashed a quick 38 not out from just 27 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes.

Australia’s bowling attack had little to celebrate. Nathan Lyon claimed two wickets, while Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Marsh managed one wicket each.

India Sets a Mammoth Target

India had already gained a 46-run lead after the first innings, leaving Australia with the daunting task of chasing 534 runs. By the end of the third day, Australia’s reply got off to a shaky start.

Opener Nathan McSweeney departed for a duck, while skipper Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne managed just 2 and 3 runs, respectively. At stumps, Usman Khawaja was at the crease, fighting to stabilize Australia’s innings.

For India, Jasprit Bumrah was the standout bowler, claiming two wickets, while Mohammed Siraj picked up one.

Recap of the First Innings

India’s first innings had been far from ideal, with the team getting bowled out for just 150 runs. Nitish Kumar Reddy was the top scorer with 41 runs. Australia’s Josh Hazlewood was lethal, picking up four wickets to put India on the back foot early.

However, India’s bowlers turned the game around in spectacular fashion. Led by Jasprit Bumrah, who took a brilliant five-wicket haul, India bundled out Australia for a mere 104 runs. Harshit Rana claimed three wickets, while Mohammed Siraj added two to his tally. Mitchell Starc’s 26 runs were the highest in Australia’s innings.

The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a five-match Test series, has already delivered thrilling cricketing action. India, leading the charge in this Test, appears well on course to secure a victory. As Australia resumes its chase on the fourth day, they face an uphill battle against a relentless Indian bowling attack.