India Need 287, Australia Need 9 wickets Who will win

Perth, December 17: Fast Bowler Mohammed Shami led India s fightback with a six-wicket haul after Usman Khawaja and Tim Paine batted out a wicket-less first session, but Australia still managed to set India a massive target of 287 on a spicy Perth pitch in the second Test.

Now India were at 13/1 after 3.3 overs

According to reports, Shami bagged 6 for 56, Jasprit Bumrah got 3 for 39 as Australia were bowled out for 243 in their second innings. Usman Khawaja (72) and Tim Paine (37) added 72 for the fifth wicket to keep India at bay before the pacers struck back.

Mighty Australia began the day on 132 for 4, and had the best of starts with Khawaja and Paine digging in. Runs were not easy to get, but the duo held firm and frustrated India with stubborn resistance.

Team India would have been relieved with the wickets, but they d also have got a sense of fear. The pitch was menacing and exploding, a few balls jumping up and the odd one keeping low. The sight would have excited Australia s pace battery, and it will take a monumental effort from India s batsmen if they are to hold on to their lead in the four-match series.