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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has praised KL Rahul for his pivotal role in easing the pressure on opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal during Day 2 of the first Test against Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth. The duo's solid 172-run opening stand helped India build a commanding position in the match.

After India’s first innings saw them bowled out for just 150, Jaiswal and Rahul came out with a clear intent to redeem themselves. They approached the second innings with caution, respecting the conditions and the new ball. The two showed remarkable resilience, seeing off Australia’s bowlers and building a foundation for India to gain the upper hand.

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Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports, commended Rahul’s stability at the crease, which allowed Jaiswal to play his natural game. “I think what he's done is he's eased up the pressure on Yashasvi Jaiswal. When you have a partner at the other end, who is looking so secure like Rahul, the other partner, who is more adventurous, can play his shots. And that’s what happened. Jaiswal has actually flowered in Rahul's company,” said Gavaskar.

The legendary former batter also hailed both players for their traditional Test match batting. He pointed out Rahul’s technical proficiency, particularly his drives through the covers and a brilliant straight drive off Pat Cummins. “Rahul hasn’t missed any scoring opportunity when the ball has been pitched up. It’s been a very, very good innings, what you would call a proper five-day Test match innings,” Gavaskar added.

By the close of Day 2, India had reached 172/0, with Jaiswal on 90* and Rahul on 62*, providing a solid foundation for India to push further ahead. Their watchful approach wore down the Australian bowlers, forcing them to toil through long spells. The partnership not only secured India’s position in the match but also allowed them to extend their lead, making Australia’s task much harder.

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Earlier, in a standout performance, stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah had taken his five-wicket haul, adding one more to his tally of four from the opening day. Australia was bowled out for just 104 runs in their first innings, handing India a 46-run lead. With the opening partnership now putting India in a strong position, the team is well-placed to build on their advantage heading into Day 3.