Starc and Hazlewood Wreak Havoc on India’s Top Order in Perth

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 A Australia's pace attack, led by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, made an immediate impact on the first morning of the Perth Test, reducing India to a precarious 51 for 4 at Lunch. The Optus Stadium lived up to its reputation for assisting fast bowlers as the Indian top-order struggled to adapt, barring KL Rahul, whose controversial dismissal was the talking point of the session.

                  Mitchell Starc Strikes Big: Removes KL Rahul in Crucial First Session for Hosts © Getty

A Session Highlights:

1. Early Strikes by Starc:

   • Starc removed Yashasvi Jaiswal (0) early, tempting him into a loose drive that found gully.
   • Later, he delivered a contentious blow by dismissing KL Rahul (26). The third umpire deemed there was a faint edge based on snicko evidence, though Rahul seemed convinced the noise was from his bat hitting the pad.

2. Hazlewood’s Precision:

   • Hazlewood’s sharp seam movement accounted for Devdutt Padikkal (0), who edged to the slip cordon after battling for survival.
   • He also scalped the prized wicket of Virat Kohli (5) with a short-of-length ball that reared up, forcing an edge to first slip.

3. India’s Rescue Attempts:

   • KL Rahul looked the most composed, playing cautiously before his contentious dismissal.
   • Rishabh Pant (unbeaten) and debutant Dhruv Jurel managed to hold on in the latter stages of the session, denying further breakthroughs.

A Bowling Masterclass:

Australia's pacers showcased exceptional skill:

• Starc used pace and angles to create constant problems.
• Hazlewood operated with surgical accuracy, extracting seam movement and bounce.

Despite India’s decision to bat first, the surface and conditions seemed tailor-made for Australia's bowling attack, leaving Jasprit Bumrah's side with plenty to ponder heading into the second session.

A What to Watch for Next:

• Can Pant counter-attack and stabilize the innings?
• Will Nathan Lyon find more purchase as the game progresses?
• How will India’s lower order handle the pace barrage?