The India-Australia rivalry flared up early on the opening day of the Perth Test, even before the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy reached its second day. The day’s play was filled with intense exchanges and on-field drama between the two teams. Mohammed Siraj emerged victorious, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne for just 2 runs off 52 balls, ending his frustrating stay at the crease. Siraj had earlier removed Mitchell Marsh and ended Day 1 with two wickets to his name. Despite a lackluster home season in red-ball cricket, Siraj was keen to make an impact in this match.
Mohammed Siraj, Marnus Labuschagne’s Tense Exchange Steals the Spotlight
Australia’s batting faced a fiery spell from India’s pacers, who didn’t just let their balls do the talking but also engaged in verbal duels. The tension peaked during the 13th over when Mohammed Siraj and Marnus Labuschagne were involved in a confrontation. Siraj bowled a short delivery that struck Labuschagne’s thigh pad, but the ball was heading towards the stumps when Labuschagne used his bat to deflect it. Siraj, displeased by this, argued that Labuschagne’s action was unnecessary as the ball wasn’t directly threatening the stumps. While it’s allowed for batters to deflect the ball to protect the stumps, Siraj felt it wasn’t warranted in this case. Even Virat Kohli was seen getting involved in his own way, removing the bails from behind during the tense moment.
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Things are heating up! Siraj and Labuschagne exchange a few words.#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/leKRuZi7Hi
— _🫰 (@Taciturn1099) November 22, 2024
The Indian pace attack was in full force, and Australia’s top order found themselves under pressure. Led by Jasprit Bumrah, India’s bowlers dismantled the Australian batting lineup, with Bumrah claiming three quick wickets, including that of Steve Smith. Openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney fell to the Indian pace barrage, and debutant Harshit Rana dismissed Travis Head. Mohammed Siraj then took two crucial wickets, including Marnus Labuschagne. Labuschagne’s struggle ended when he was bowled out by Siraj for just 2 runs. Australia, chasing India’s low total of 150, found themselves in deep trouble, ending Day 1 at a perilous 67/7. Bumrah was the standout with four wickets, while Siraj and Harshit Rana claimed three wickets collectively.
