The opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy witnessed a thrilling contest, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Among the sea of emotions in the stands at Perth Stadium were Bollywood star Anushka Sharma and broadcaster Sanjana Ganesan, both of whom cheered passionately as their husbands, Kohli and Bumrah, played pivotal roles in the action. The duo, along with millions of fans worldwide, breathed a sigh of relief when India wrapped up Australia’s second innings, sealing an early advantage in the series.
A Day of High Tension
Australia began Day 2 at 67/7, chasing India’s first-innings total of 150. With the top order back in the pavilion, the Indian bowlers looked set to take control. However, the hosts showed resilience, as Mitchell Starc (26 off 112 balls) and Josh Hazlewood (7* off 31 balls) frustrated India with a determined rear-guard effort. The pair batted for 18 overs, defying the Indian attack and narrowing the first-innings deficit.
India’s bowlers worked tirelessly under challenging conditions, with Harshit Rana finally breaking the stand by dismissing Starc in the 52nd over. The dismissal ended Australia’s innings at 94, giving India a 56-run lead.
Relief and Joy in the Stands
Anushka Sharma and Sanjana Ganesan, in attendance to support their husbands, reflected the emotions of every Indian fan. The frustration of the long partnership was evident, but their reactions after Starc’s dismissal were a perfect mix of relief and joy. A video shared on social media captured their heartfelt applause, showcasing how invested they were in the game’s tense moments.
The clip quickly went viral, with fans praising the duo for their unwavering support and camaraderie. Many commented on how their reactions mirrored the feelings of Indian supporters across the globe.
Key Contributions on the Field
While Anushka and Sanjana cheered from the stands, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah played significant roles on the field. Kohli contributed crucial runs in the first innings, stabilizing the team after an early collapse. Bumrah, leading the bowling attack, was instrumental in dismantling Australia’s top order, claiming three vital wickets.
Their combined efforts, along with the performance of the entire team, ensured India maintained the upper hand in a low-scoring and intensely fought contest.
India’s Grit and Determination
The Perth pitch offered plenty of assistance to bowlers, making it a battleground for the teams’ pacers. While India’s 150-run total in the first innings appeared modest, their bowlers stepped up to the challenge, exploiting the conditions to perfection. The spirited defense by Starc and Hazlewood tested India’s resolve, but their perseverance paid off, as they secured a crucial first-innings lead.
Fans Celebrate a Memorable Moment
The reactions of Anushka Sharma and Sanjana Ganesan became a highlight for fans, symbolizing the unity and passion that cricket inspires. Social media was flooded with posts celebrating India’s resilience, with many appreciating how the wives of Kohli and Bumrah shared the highs and lows of the match with such genuine emotion.
One X user wrote, “Anushka and Sanjana perfectly captured the emotions of every Indian fan. What a moment!” Another added, “Their joy and relief after Starc’s wicket says it all. Cricket truly unites us.”
Looking Ahead in the Series
India’s performance in the opening Test has set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. With the second innings yet to unfold, the team will aim to build on their slender lead and put the pressure back on Australia.
For now, Anushka Sharma and Sanjana Ganesan’s spirited reactions serve as a reminder of how cricket brings people together, creating moments of shared joy and relief. As the series progresses, fans will be eager to see more such memorable moments, both on and off the field.
India’s first Test victory in Perth has not only strengthened their position in the series but also showcased the indomitable spirit of the players and their supporters. With Anushka and Sanjana leading the cheers from the stands, the camaraderie and passion for cricket were on full display, making the match a cherished memory for all.
