NEW DELHI: In a landmark achievement for Indian cricket, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul forged a record-breaking opening partnership of 172 runs during the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Optus Stadium in Perth. This stand marked India’s highest-ever opening partnership in Australia, surpassing the previous record of 165 runs set by Sunil Gavaskar and Chetan Chauhan in Melbourne in 1981. The partnership, which ended with both batsmen unbeaten, laid a solid foundation for India, with Jaiswal on 90* and Rahul on 62* as the team looked to capitalize on a strong start.
The partnership came at a crucial juncture for India, as they have often struggled to find consistency in their opening stands on Australian soil. Jaiswal’s composed knock was a standout, as the young opener showcased his technique and temperament against Australia’s formidable pace attack. Rahul, steady and assured, played a pivotal role in ensuring the partnership flourished, providing the stability needed at the other end. Together, the pair provided a glimpse of what could be a new era of opening partnerships for India in overseas conditions.
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The achievement is especially significant given the challenges Indian batsmen have historically faced in Australia. The previous record of 165 runs, set in 1981 by Gavaskar and Chauhan, had stood for over four decades. The 172-run stand now sets a new benchmark, highlighting the resilience and skill of India’s current opening duo. With both players still at the crease, India looks poised to build on this solid start, aiming to post a competitive total.
Veteran cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, reflecting on the historic partnership, praised the young openers for their composure and ability to handle pressure. “This partnership is a testament to the resilience and skill of our young openers. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen such a strong start in Australia,” Gavaskar said.
Jaiswal, acknowledging the importance of the partnership, credited Rahul for his support. “It was important to build a solid foundation, and I’m glad we could do that. KL played a crucial role in anchoring the innings,” he said. Rahul, focused on the team’s success, echoed similar sentiments. “We focused on playing each ball on its merit and not getting ahead of ourselves. It’s a great feeling to contribute to the team’s success,” he added.
With India in a strong position, the partnership between Jaiswal and Rahul could prove to be a turning point for the team in Australia, as they aim to capitalize on this historic achievement.