- By Gurmeet Batra
- Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:22 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
IND vs AUS Test: As the cricketing world waits with bated breath, the Optus Stadium in Perth is gearing up for the first Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia starting this Friday.
The stage is set for a thrilling five-Test series between India and Australia, with the hosts seeking to claim their first series victory in 10 years. In the original captain Rohit Sharma's absence India national cricket team will be led by Jasprit Bumrah while Pat Cummins will lead the Australian side in the clash of two pace cartels.
As the first Test approaches, Virat Kohli's happy hunting ground Optus Stadium is all set to host the opener between the two cricketing giants. Perth curator Isaac McDonald had envisioned a fast and bouncy track, reminiscent of the legendary WACA pitch, but the unexpected rains in Perth have thrown a spanner in the works.
Rain has been a persistent presence in Perth ahead of the first Test, and it's likely to continue on Day 1, with a 25 per cent chance of morning showers. These conditions will make the Optus Stadium pitch conducive to fast bowling, adding an extra layer of strategy to the toss.
India vs Australia Test Series, Perth Weather Update
Perth is bracing for overnight rain, with a 58 per cent chance of showers at 11 PM and additional rain predicted between 2-3 AM. Fortunately, the rain will dissipate rapidly, giving way to sunshine by 6 AM. As the match commences at 10:20 AM, players can expect partial cloud cover and a comfortable temperature of approximately 20 degrees Celsius.
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IND vs AUS Perth Pitch Report
Meanwhile taking about the pitch, Perth's pitch, once expected to crack and deteriorate, will instead remain lively and pacey for the first 48 hours, testing the skills of batsmen. But as the match progresses beyond day two, the surface is anticipated to flatten out, transforming into a batting-friendly environment conducive to high scores.