On Day 1 of the first Test match between Australia and India at in Perth, Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana delivered a spectacular moment, claiming his maiden international wicket in style. The right-arm fast bowler clean-bowled Australia batter Travis Head in his debut match.
Harshit Rana’s dream debut delivery
In the 12th over of Australia’s first innings, Rana’s delivery to Head was a masterclass in pace and swing. It was a good-length delivery that angled in, forcing Head to attempt a defensive shot from the back foot. However, the ball nipped away sharply off the pitch, beating the outside edge of Head’s bat and crashing into the off-stump. Head, who had looked in solid form, was left stunned, and the Indian bowler celebrated his landmark wicket with sheer joy, punching the air in disbelief.
Here is the video:
What a way to get your maiden Test wicket! ⚡️#DeliveredwithSpeed | #AUSvIND | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/IkykgwUEWW
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2024
Notably, the wicket was important not only because it was Rana’s first-ever international scalp but also because it came at the expense of one of Australia’s finest batters. Head, who has been in superb form recently, was dismissed for 11 off 13 balls, with his brief stay at the crease featuring two boundaries. Rana’s success in dismissing such a dangerous player on his debut was a moment to remember.
Rana’s performance on Day 1 was impressive, as he concluded his spell with figures of 8 overs, 33 runs, and that crucial wicket of Head. His composure and focus under pressure showed his potential to be a valuable asset in the Indian fast-bowling attack going forward.
Also WATCH : Pat Cummins outfoxes Rishabh Pant on Day 1 of Perth Test | AUS vs IND 2024
Jasprit Bumrah leads India’s dominant bowling display
Earlier in the day, India won the toss and chose to bat first, but their innings crumbled as they were bowled out for just 150 runs. Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was the chief architect of India’s downfall, claiming 4 wickets for 29 runs and putting the visitors on the backfoot.
In response, Australia’s top order also struggled under the pressure of India’s relentless bowling attack. By the close of Day 1, the hosts were reeling at 67 for 7 in just 27 overs. Leading from the front, Indian captain Jasprit Bumrah was outstanding, picking up 4 wickets for just 17 runs in his 10 overs. His spell was a masterpiece of precision, with an economy rate of just 1.70 runs per over.
At the end of Day 1, Australia found themselves in a precarious position, trailing India by 83 runs with just 3 wickets remaining in their first innings. With India’s bowlers in top form and Australia’s batters struggling, the second day of this thrilling contest promises to be full of excitement and tension.