Perth, Nov 24 (Reporter) Yashasvi Jaiswal's scintillating 161 was the standout performance on Day 3 of the first Test at Optus Stadium, as India surged to a commanding 405-run lead over Australia by tea on Sunday. The 23-year-old debutant, making his first appearance in Australia, was in sublime touch, combining aggression with composure in his 297-ball innings. His knock, which included 15 fours and 3 sixes, not only powered India to a formidable total but also saw him join an elite group of Indians who have scored a century on Test debut in Australia. Jaiswal's stand with KL Rahul had already set a new record for India’s highest opening partnership in Australia, but the partnership was broken when Rahul fell for 77. Nonetheless, Jaiswal and Devdutt Padikkal continued to frustrate the Australian bowlers, adding an unbroken 74-run stand for the second wicket. With this innings, Jaiswal moved into rare company, equalling the record for most Test centuries in a calendar year by an Indian under 23, alongside cricketing legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar. The Indian batting attack showed no signs of slowing down, with Virat Kohli looking sharp at the crease. He made a quickfire 40* off 74 balls, including an authoritative six off Mitchell Starc. Washington Sundar also contributed, adding 14* runs from 41 balls, keeping India firmly in control. Australia's bowling attack, which had been under pressure from the outset, struggled to make inroads. Mitchell Starc (1/102) toiled without success, while Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon found little assistance from the pitch. There was a brief moment of concern when Kohli’s cut shot off Starc struck a steward on the head, but the individual was later cleared after concussion tests. Earlier in the day, India had made a strong start, with Jaiswal and Rahul putting on a record-breaking 201-run opening stand. After Rahul’s dismissal, the Australian bowlers briefly fought back with three quick wickets following lunch. Hezlewood dismissed Devdutt Padikkal for 25. Lyon accounted for Rishabh Pant for just 1 with a clever stumping, and Pat Cummins dismissed Dhruv Jurel for a solitary run. Despite these breakthroughs, India’s lead continued to grow. The uneven bounce of the pitch was becoming more pronounced, further tilting the advantage in India’s favour as the match moved into its final session. Australia now faces an uphill battle to find a way back into the contest...////...