India Inches Closer to Victory in Perth Test

Sports Desk

India tightened its grip on the Perth Test as Australia struggled at 91 for 6 at stumps on day four, chasing an improbable 534 for victory. With just four wickets in hand, the hosts face an uphill battle to either save or win the match on the final day.

Starting the day at 12 for 3, Australia lost two early wickets, with Jasprit Bumrah removing Steve Smith for 9 and Mohammed Siraj dismissing Travis Head for 17. Alex Carey and Cameron Green offered brief resistance, adding 56 runs for the sixth wicket, before Ravindra Jadeja bowled Carey for 28.

Green remains unbeaten on 35, holding Australia’s slim hopes of survival, while the Indian bowlers continue to dominate on a pitch offering uneven bounce. Bumrah has been the standout performer, claiming 3 for 24 in his fiery spells.

Earlier, centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli helped India declare their second innings at 487 for 6, setting the massive target. Kohli ended his 16-month Test century drought with an unbeaten 100, while Jaiswal’s 161 laid the foundation for India’s commanding lead.

With a full day remaining and the hosts still trailing by 443 runs, India is well-positioned to secure an emphatic win and take a 1-0 lead in the series.