Yashasvi-Rahul break Gavaskar's record in Border-Gavaskar trophy, scores highest opening partnership in Australia

Team India’s opening pair, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul delivered a masterclass in batting during Day 3 of the first Test of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth, achieving a record-breaking unbeaten 201-run opening stand. Their partnership not only put India in a commanding position but also etched their names in history as the highest-ever Indian opening stand in Australia, surpassing the 191-run record set by Sunil Gavaskar and Kris Srikkanth in Sydney in 1986.

This incredible achievement came on the heels of a disappointing first innings where India was bowled out for a modest 150. Resuming their second innings with a 46-run lead, Jaiswal and Rahul displayed remarkable skill and composure to fend off the challenges posed by Australia’s formidable bowling attack, featuring Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins on a lively Perth pitch.

Jaiswal, the 22-year-old prodigy, continued his stellar rise in international cricket, bringing up his first overseas Test century in style with a six off Hazlewood. He resumed the day on an overnight score of 90 and wasted little time in reaching the landmark. The celebration that followed saw the Indian dressing room erupt with applause, reflecting the pride in Jaiswal’s accomplishment.

Rahul, on the other hand, played the perfect foil, anchoring the innings with a composed 77. His blend of patience and timely aggression ensured the Australian bowlers were denied any breakthroughs. Together, the duo blunted the Australian attack and gradually turned the tide in India’s favor.

Top 5 Indian Opening Stands in Australia:

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul – 201 runs (2024)
2. Sunil Gavaskar, Krishnamachari Srikkanth – 191 runs (1986)
3. Chetan Chauhan, Sunil Gavaskar – 165 runs (1981)
4. Aakash Chopra, Virender Sehwag – 141 runs (2003)
5. Mulvantrai Mankad, Chintaman Sarwate – 124 runs (1948)

Jaiswal’s inning was marked by elegance and flair, featuring a slew of boundaries and his trademark ability to attack the bowlers. His performance earned him the moniker of “new king” by the Australian media, further establishing his reputation as a rising star in world cricket.