Last Updated on 2 weeks by Charbel Coorey
Optus Stadium in Perth has played host to four Tests, with the first in 2018-19. Australia beat India by 146 runs on that occasion, with team efforts with the bat – plus Nathan Lyon’s eight wickets – trumping Virat Kohli’s magnificent century.
Australia have also gone on to win the next three Tests at the ground. Their dominance in Perth, where opposing teams have often found the going difficult, is not a huge surprise. However, some of the records at Optus Stadium may raise an eyebrow or two.
Optus Stadium Perth records: Australia’s new fortress?
Results in Tests at Optus Stadium Perth: Australia’s dominance batting first
- 2018/19: Australia beat India by 146 runs
- 2019/20: Australia beat New Zealand by 296 runs
- 2022/23: Australia beat West Indies by 164 runs
- 2023/24: Australia beat Pakistan by 360 runs
Australia have batted first in all four Tests at the ground so far, going on to win all matches comfortably, although they were made to work hard by West Indies in the fourth innings in 2022/23.
Australia have set up their wins in the first innings. The average first innings score is a high 456, and they have never scored below 300. However, given their shaky batting form over the past 12 months and India’s strong attack even without Mohammed Shami, it will be fascinating to see how Pat Cummins’ team will fare if they bat first again.
Pace vs. spin records: Don’t discount the spinners, especially Nathan Lyon
Nathan Lyon leads the bowling records at Optus Stadium in Perth. On a ground where bounce is the common theme, Lyon has benefitted most, taking 27 wickets at a superb average of 18.00.
Lyon thrives on bounce. His overspin will be sure to test the Indians, whose batting against spin is under a bright spotlight after the 3-0 series loss at home to New Zealand.
Overall, pace bowlers average 29.71, nearly four runs better than spin’s 33.18. However, whether India’s spinner can be as effective as Lyon remains to be seen. Time for Washington Sundar, perhaps?
ALSO READ: Optus Stadium Pitch Report for 1st BGT Test
Most runs: Marnus Labuschagne
Australia needs a big series from Marnus Labuschagne. He has enjoyed great success on this ground, striking 519 runs at a Bradman-esque average of 103.80. This includes three centuries in as many matches, with a top score of 204 against West Indies in 2022/23.
Other key records at Optus Stadium Perth:
- Highest team score: 598/4 by Australia (batting first) vs. West Indies in 2022/23.
- Lowest team score: 89 by Pakistan (batting fourth) vs. Australia in 2023/24.
- Highest individual score: 204 by Marnus Labuschagne vs. West Indies in 2022/23.
- Best bowling figures in an innings: 6/56 by Mohammed Shami vs. Australia in 2018/19.
- Average score in the fourth innings: 183.25.
Australia are seeking a strong start in their quest to end their winless run against India in the BGT, dating back to 2014/15. Also, there is a World Test Championship Final appearance at stake, with a series win key for Australia, while India need to win four matches.
