When Aussie tail disappoints India: Usual suspect Mitchell Starc reliable in Perth Test

Mitchell Starc once again proved to be India’s nemesis, this time with the bat, as his dogged 26 off 112 balls, along with Josh Hazlewood’s resilient 7*, took Australia to 104 on the second day of the first Test in Perth. . Although Australia conceded a 46-run lead, the 25-run last-wicket partnership between Starc and Hazlewood could be crucial in a contest that has been low-scoring so far.

Resuming play overnight, Starc withstood relentless pressure from the Indian bowlers, parrying blows to his helmet and shoulder but remaining determined. His determination, combined with Hazlewood’s caution, ensured that the Indian attack was forced to bowl another 18 overs to dismiss the pair. This was not the first time Starc and Hazlewood had combined to upset India with the bat.

Australia vs India 1st Test: Day 2 Live Streaming

In fact, Starc has been a key figure in several important 10th-wicket partnerships for India over the years, including memorable stands in Pune (55 runs, 2017), Brisbane (51, 2014), Sydney (42, 2019) and Perth. (36, 2018). Their latest 25-run effort at Perth in 2024 may pale in comparison, but given the conditions of the field it has enormous value.

Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc at the Test stands for the 10th wicket against India

55 – Pune, 2017

51 – Brisbane, 2014

42 – Sydney, 2019

36 – Perth, 2018

25 – Perth, 2024

The day started brightly for India as captain Jasprit Bumrah bowled the second ball of the morning. The skipper, who finished with figures of 5/30, got the chance to parry a delivery from behind, giving Alex Carey (21) an edge which was taken with ease by Rishabh Pant. Debutant Harshit Rana (3/48) piled on the pressure by dismissing Nathan Lyon (5) with a sharp short shot that was caught at gully by KL. Rahul. With the score at 79/9, India look to be in a comfortable lead.

However, Stark and Hazlewood had other plans. Starc’s solid defending and strategic strike management kept the scoreboard alive while Hazlewood played his role with calm efficiency. The duo showed remarkable composure to survive India’s pace attack as the ball aged and movement from the seam diminished.

Even as the Indian bowlers rotated, including a short spell from Nitish Reddy, they struggled to find a breakthrough. Starc, while making occasional aerial strikes, reminded Harshit Rana of their IPL days together with a cheeky comment: “I have a long memory, Harshit.” It was only during Harshita’s second spell that resistance ceased. Starc, attempting to strike, skied to Pant, who took the catch to end the innings.

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