India dominated the second day of the first Test against Australia in Perth, thanks to an impressive performance by openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. The pair batted through two full sessions, taking India to 172 for 0 at stumps, with a lead of 218 runs.  

Jaiswal, who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings, bounced back with an unbeaten 90, showing great composure and skill. His innings included some powerful strokes, including a six off Nathan Lyon. Rahul played a steady hand, reaching 62 not out. Both batsmen frustrated the Australian bowlers with their solid partnership, which has already surpassed the total scores of both teams in the first innings.  

Earlier in the day, Australia struggled to recover from their poor start and were bowled out for 104 before lunch. Indian captain Jasprit Bumrah was the star with the ball, taking 5 for 30 in a brilliant display of pace bowling. Debutant Harshit Rana also impressed, picking up three wickets, including a sharp bouncer to dismiss Nathan Lyon.  

Australia’s lower order showed some resistance, with Mitchell Starc scoring 26 off 112 balls, the highest score for his team. Starc and Josh Hazlewood added 26 runs for the last wicket, preventing Australia from falling to their lowest-ever Test total against India.  

The Australian bowlers, who dominated on the first day, struggled to replicate their performance. Conditions were better for batting, and Jaiswal and Rahul made the most of the opportunity. Despite a few missed chances, including a dropped catch and a failed run-out, Australia looked weary and unable to break the partnership.  

With a commanding lead and all ten wickets intact, India is in a strong position to dictate the remainder of the match. The hosts will need a major turnaround to avoid starting the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a loss.