Perth
After a crushing 295-run defeat to India in the first Test, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed no changes to the squad for the second Test in Adelaide, starting December 6.
Despite being bowled out for 150 in their first innings, India staged an incredible turnaround in the Perth Test, leaving the hosts stunned. McDonald assured that the same players from Perth will feature in Adelaide. “The people in that changeroom are the same people who’ll be in Adelaide,” he told ICC, adding that squad selections always consider conditions.
McDonald also commented on Mitchell Marsh’s fitness, noting that the all-rounder was slightly underprepared. Marsh took 2/12 in the first innings but struggled in the second, reflecting ongoing fitness challenges after injuries during the IPL and a lack of recent match practice.
India’s victory was powered by exceptional performances. Jasprit Bumrah claimed 5/30 in the first innings as Australia managed just 104. Harshit Rana impressed on debut with 3/48. In India’s second innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal (161) and KL Rahul (77) led a 201-run opening stand, while Virat Kohli added an unbeaten 100. India declared at 487/6, setting a 534-run target.
Australia’s resistance, led by Travis Head (89) and Marsh (47), ended at 238. Bumrah (3/42) and Mohammed Siraj (3/51) starred, sealing a dominant win for India. Bumrah, also the stand-in captain, was named Player of the Match for his eight wickets.
India’s remarkable comeback sets the stage for an exciting second Test in Adelaide.
