Day 1 Review: Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25

What a sensational opening to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25! The first day in Perth was dominated by pace, with the bowlers asserting authority. A staggering 17 wickets fell to seamers-making it a day to forget for the batsmen on both sides.

India's batting lineup struggled against a relentless Australian pace attack, managing only 150 runs in the first inning. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout performer, wreaking havoc on the Aussie top order. With pinpoint accuracy and swing, he reduced Australia to a precarious 19/3, dismissing Khawaja, McSweeney, and Smith in quick succession.

The fiery spell of Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana set a steady pressure. Rana then produced a stunning delivery to send the dangerous Travis Head back, while Marnus Labuschagne took a ghastly 24 deliveries to open his account. Mitchell Marsh and Marsh attempted to revive the innings but faced a fall soon, leaving Australia reeling at 59/7.

And who hogged the Day 1? It's fair to say that the day belonged to the Pacers. However, India emerged with a slight upper hand as Australia found itself 83 runs behind with more than half their batting lineup back in the pavilion. The day was filled with intense exchanges as Josh Hazlewood delivered a masterclass with a four-wicket haul, dismantling India's batting for 150 runs. Except for a gritty 41 by debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy, and the staying power from Rishabh Pant and Reddy, there was little hope on the visitors' part.

The same trend continued in Australia's innings. The new ball caused chaos, and the batters struggled. With just three wickets left, Australia faces their lowest total against India in Test cricket at 83 runs.

It will be interesting to see if India on Day 2 can further restrict Australia or, whether the hosts can mount a thrilling comeback. The intensity of this storied rivalry means that anything can happen as the match unfolds.

India will look to dismiss Alex Carey early on day 2. The southpaw toiled hard and survived challenging spells from Indian seamers on a day highlighted by wickets.