India Takes Control on Day 2: A Record Partnership Puts India on Top with a 218-Run Lead
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 between India and Australia brought thrilling action on Day 2 of the 1st Test. India’s outstanding performance turned the game in their favor. Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul delivered a brilliant opening partnership of 172 runs, giving India a massive 218-run lead with all 10 wickets intact.
This remarkable stand surpassed India’s previous Border-Gavaskar Trophy record for the highest opening partnership (141 runs) by Virender Sehwag and Aakash Chopra during the 2003 Melbourne in 3rd Test. India now looks in a commanding position, but cricket is unpredictable, and Australia will need a magical comeback to turn things around.
On Day 1, India scored 150 runs in their first innings. In response, Australia struggled at 67/7 by the end of the day. You can find the first day’s highlights on this link.
India Dominates Day 2
India’s bowlers started Day 2 with high intensity, piling more pressure on Australia’s already struggling batting lineup. The Australian innings folded for 104 runs, giving India a crucial advantage.
In India’s second innings, Jaiswal and Rahul showcased calm and disciplined batting. Facing a tough Australian bowling attack, including Hazlewood and Starc, they absorbed the pressure, played sensible shots, and avoided unnecessary risks. Their partnership of 172 runs* remains unbeaten, with Jaiswal scoring 90 off 193 balls* and Rahul contributing 62 off 153 balls*.
Key Stats: India on Day 2
- Opening Partnership: 172* (346 balls)
- Top Scorers:
- Jaiswal: 90* (193 balls)
- KL Rahul: 62* (153 balls)
- Lead Over Australia: 218 runs
Australia Struggles on Day 2
Australia’s troubles continued as they resumed Day 2 at 67/7. Despite a brief resistance from Starc (26 off 112 balls) and Hazlewood, they could add only 37 more runs before being all out for 104.
Under pressure, Australia’s bowlers tried to make an impact, but India’s opening pair stood firm. Hazlewood bowled with precision, but the Indian batsmen maintained composure and built a solid lead. For Australia, turning this game around now seems like a challenging task.
India’s Bowling Performance
India’s bowling attack was led by captain Jasprit Bumrah, who took an impressive 5 wickets for 30 runs.
- Harshit Rana: On his dream debut, Rana claimed 3 wickets and dedicated his performance to his father.
- Mohammed Siraj: Contributed with 2 wickets to dismantle the Australian batting lineup
Record Alert: Most Sixes in a Calendar Year
Adding to his fantastic day, Yashasvi Jaiswal broke the record for the most sixes in a calendar year.
- Jaiswal (2024): 34* sixes (new record)
- Previous record holders:
- Brendon McCullum (NZ): 33 (2014)
- Ben Stokes (ENG): 26 (2022)
Scorecard of Day 2
Australia Team(1st Innings)
India Team(2nd Innings)
| Alex Carey | 21(31) |
| Pat Cummins(c) | 3(5) |
| Mitchell Starc | 26(112) |
| Nathan Lyon | 5(16) |
| Josh Hazlewood | 7*(31) |
| Extras | 5(lb1, nb4) |
| Total | 104/10 |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | 90*(193) |
| Kl Rahul | 62*(153) |
| Extras | 20(lb11, nb4, w5) |
| Total | 172/0 |
Conclusion: Can Australia Make a Comeback?
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024, 1st Test, Day 2, has been completely dominated by India. With a 218-run lead and 10 wickets in hand, India seems set for a big victory. However, cricket is unpredictable—can Australia stage a memorable comeback, or will India cruise to an easy win?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates!
