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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former England captain Michael Vaughan revealed that ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly had accurately predicted India’s commanding win in the first Test against Australia in Perth. India triumphed by a massive 295 runs in the series opener, taking a crucial 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Ganguly, a guest on The Club Prairie Fire podcast, had warned Vaughan before the series not to underestimate India. Vaughan had earlier predicted a 3-1 series win for Australia. Sharing Ganguly’s foresight, Vaughan read out a text message sent by the former India captain on Day 2, when India had dismissed Australia for 104 after being bowled out for 150 in the first innings. The message read: “Hi Michael… My prediction is going well.”

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India’s resurgence was powered by Yashasvi Jaiswal, whose stellar knock of 161 (297 balls) in the second innings helped the team post a mammoth lead of 533 runs. Vaughan hailed Jaiswal as the “best young player in the world,” applauding his ability to adapt and dominate when required. However, Vaughan criticized Australia for not testing the young batter with enough short balls during his innings. “You might as well whack him on the shoulder, get fielders close in… Just do it,” he remarked.

As the series heads to Adelaide for the second Test, a pink-ball encounter starting on December 6, Australia will aim to stage a comeback. India, despite their lead, cannot afford complacency, particularly after their infamous collapse for 36 runs at the same venue in 2020. Ahead of the clash, India will play a two-day warm-up game against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, offering crucial preparation for the challenges of the day-night format.

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India’s remarkable performance in Perth underscores their resilience, setting the tone for an electrifying series.