Former Australia captain Allan Border has voiced his frustration over the team's failure to control Virat Kohli during the first Test in Perth, highlighting that this could have serious implications for the rest of the five-match series. Kohli, who had gone without a Test century for 18 months, made a triumphant return to form, scoring an unbeaten 100 in India's dominant 295-run victory. Border expressed his disappointment over Australia's lack of resistance, saying that letting Kohli get to a century without much pressure could fuel his confidence for the remainder of the series.

Border also questioned the tactics of Australian captain Pat Cummins, suggesting that Kohli was allowed to regain his rhythm after struggling in the recent home series against New Zealand. The former captain felt Kohli's resurgence could become a major challenge for Australia moving forward.

Matthew Hayden, another former Australian cricketer, joined in the criticism, particularly targeting the field placements after Kohli's arrival at the crease. Hayden pointed out that Nathan Lyon's field settings allowed Kohli to rotate the strike easily, giving him the opportunity to settle in and regain his form. Hayden also criticized Cummins for missing tactical opportunities earlier in the innings, such as the delayed use of short-ball strategies against India's openers.

The criticism from both Border and Hayden reflects broader concerns about Australia’s handling of key moments in the match, with the team under pressure as the series progresses.