Fri Nov 22 11:08:31 UTC 2024: ## India’s Rishabh Pant Shines Amidst Turmoil in Perth Test, IPL Auction Looms
**Perth, Australia** – India’s first Test against Australia in Perth got off to a shaky start, with the visitors bowled out for a paltry 150 on Day 1. After winning the toss and electing to bat, India suffered a top-order collapse, losing six wickets for just 73 runs. However, a crucial partnership between Rishabh Pant (37) and Nitish Reddy (41, top score) helped steady the innings. Josh Hazlewood led the Australian attack, claiming four wickets, while Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Marsh each took two.
Despite the batting woes, Pant’s performance has already generated significant buzz ahead of the upcoming IPL 2025 auction, where he is expected to be a marquee player and attract a substantial bid. The anticipation surrounding Pant’s IPL future was even highlighted on the field when Australian spinner Nathan Lyon jokingly asked Pant which team he planned to join.
India fought back in the final stages of Day 1, with captain Jasprit Bumrah taking three early Australian wickets, leaving the hosts struggling at 19/3 at the close of play. The match remains tense, with both teams showcasing contrasting fortunes. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is shaping up to be a thrilling contest.
First Piper 