India’s stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah praised Virat Kohli for his exceptional century during the second innings of the Perth Test, which played a crucial role in India’s commanding 295-run victory over Australia on November 25. Kohli’s resilient knock of 100 runs off 143 balls not only silenced critics but also reaffirmed his stature in Test cricket, helping India secure a 1-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Jasprit Bumrah Lauds Virat Kohli
Kohli faced scrutiny for his recent inability to convert promising starts into impactful innings. After scoring just five runs in India’s first innings total of 150, the pressure was on him. However, he responded brilliantly in the second innings, complementing opener Yashasvi Jaiswal’s impressive 161 runs and KL Rahul’s gritty 77 runs, both of whom set the tone with a record 201-run partnership.
Bumrah, speaking at the post-match press conference, emphasized the importance of Kohli’s experience and how it boosts the team’s morale. “I have said this before that Virat Kohli doesn’t need us; it is we who need Virat Kohli. He is an experienced player; his fourth or fifth tour, so he knows best what his batting and calibre is like,” Bumrah stated.
Overcoming Challenges
Bumrah acknowledged that performing consistently over a long career can be challenging. “Sometimes when you have a career this long and you play in so many tough scenarios that he has played in, performing in every match becomes a bit difficult. But he was always looking in great space in this match,” he added.
IPL Auction 2025: Bhuvneshwar Kumar Reunites with RCB for INR 10.75 Crore
Kohli’s performance in the second innings was particularly important as it provided stability at a time when India needed it most. “The second innings we needed an experienced batter who plays well himself and also allows the other batter to play freely,” Bumrah noted. “If at the start of the series a player like him gets some confidence, you cannot ask for anything more.”
Team India’s Path to Victory
India’s path to victory was not without its challenges. With regular skipper Rohit Sharma absent and Shubman Gill sidelined due to injury, doubts loomed large after the team’s first-innings collapse. However, Bumrah’s impressive bowling figures of 5/30 were crucial as India bowled Australia out for just 104, giving them a fighting chance.
On Day 2, Jaiswal and Rahul orchestrated a stunning comeback, laying a solid foundation for India’s dominance. Kohli’s century then extended India’s lead to an imposing 534 runs, leaving Australia with a mountain to climb.
In their chase, Australia crumbled under relentless pressure from India’s bowlers. Bumrah again led the charge with figures of 3/42, while Mohammed Siraj contributed with 3/51, dismantling the Australian batting lineup and sealing India’s comprehensive victory.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
