Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul delivered a scintillating performance on Day 2 of the first Test in Perth, part of the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia. Their unbeaten 172-run partnership not only solidified India’s position but also witnessed Jaiswal entering the record books.
Jaiswal became the batter with the most sixes in a single calendar year in Test cricket. During his remarkable innings of 84* off 193 balls, featuring 7 fours and 2 sixes, he surpassed Brendon McCullum's record of 33 sixes set in 2014, finishing the day with 34 sixes in 2024.
This achievement places Jaiswal among Test cricket elites, including Ben Stokes (26 sixes in 2022), Adam Gilchrist (22 sixes in 2005), and Virender Sehwag (22 sixes in 2008). His second six of the innings etched his name in history, giving India a commanding lead of 218 runs at stumps.
Earlier, after being bowled out for just 150 on Day 1, India's bowlers staged an inspiring comeback. Jasprit Bumrah, leading as the stand-in skipper, spearheaded the bowling attack that dismissed Australia for a paltry 104, securing a vital 46-run lead.
In their second innings, Jaiswal and Rahul took charge. While Jaiswal dazzled with his aggressive stroke play, KL Rahul provided steady support with 62* to help India dominate. As the match heads into Day 3, India looks poised for a strong finish with their 218-run advantage.
Highlights:
- Jaiswal Breaks Record: Becomes batter with most sixes (34) in a calendar year in Test cricket, surpassing Brendon McCullum's 2014 record.
- Unbeaten Partnership: Yashasvi Jaiswal (84*) and KL Rahul (62*) share an unbroken 172-run stand.
- India's Fightback: Indian bowlers skittle Australia for 104, securing a 46-run lead after India's first-innings collapse.
- Lead Extends: By Day 2 stumps, India builds a commanding 218-run lead.