India achieved a remarkable victory over Australia, breaking the host's unbeaten run at Perth's Optus Stadium, a venue where Australia had reigned supreme since its 2018 inception. This achievement was cemented on November 25, 2024, during the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a formidable 295-run win.
Before this showdown, Australia had an impeccable record at this modern fortress, winning all four Test matches held here. One notable victory was their 146-run triumph over India during their first Test confrontation at this ground. Known for its fast-paced and bouncy pitch, reminiscent of the iconic WACA ground, Optus Stadium had always been a paradise for Australian bowlers like Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon.
India's Tactical Brilliance
Despite the home bowlers equipped with superior tactics and past success, India arrived with a clear mission. Under the leadership of Jasprit Bumrah, who masterminded the strategy against the Australians, they managed to turn the pitch's characteristics to their advantage. Complementing Bumrah's guidance was the stellar batting performance of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who provided a robust backbone to India's innings.
Australia's reputedly unyielding batting lineup crumbled under India's pressure, as they found themselves in disarray. Their first innings concluded with a meager total of 104 runs. Seeking to chase down a massive 534 runs to win, they faltered again in their second innings, managing only 238 runs.
Memorable Moments and Mishaps
Among the memorable occurrences was Marnus Labuschagne's persistent struggles against Bumrah's fierce bowling. Australia's usually sharp tactical sense appeared to falter inexplicably during this Test, making a few misguided decisions like assigning Labuschagne as a nightwatcher and attempting to use ill-prepared leg-spin tactics, which backfired.
The match also held the distinction of achieving a record for single-day attendance at the stadium, with 31,302 spectators flocking in, although it didn't surpass the overall Test match attendance record of 81,104 set back in 2018.
This win at the Optus Stadium is not just a notable addition to India's cricketing accolades but also a profound marker of change, indicating a shift in the dynamic long dominated by Australian strength on home turf.
