In a much-needed relief for Team India, fast bowler and stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah returned to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) late on Day 2 of the ongoing fifth Test against Australia. Bumrah, who left midway through Australia’s second innings for a scan, joined the Indian camp at around 4:45 pm local time, running up the steps of the pavilion – a sight that brought hope to Indian fans.
WITH India likely defending a modest target in the final innings, Bumrah’s availability could prove crucial on the spicy SCG track. The 31-year-old has been India’s best bowler in the series, leading the wicket-taking charts with 32 dismissals so far.
Bumrah leaves the middle innings for a scan
Bumrah’s absence was felt during the second half of Australia’s innings when he left the field with the team physio. The pacer, who felt uncomfortable while bowling, went to a Perth hospital for preventive tests.
Despite missing their best bowler, India managed to restrict Australia to 181 runs, thanks to an inspired bowling effort by Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Sirajand debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy. The trio was well supported by sharp catching from the slip cordon.
Virat Kohli took over as captain during Bumrah’s absence, as the pacer himself replaced Rohit Sharma, who pulled out of the Sydney Test due to poor form.
Rohit Sharma praises Bumrah’s leadership
Before the day’s game, Rohit Sharma he praised Bumrah’s leadership qualities and praised his evolution as a cricketer over the years.
“Of course, he has a lot of ideas for the game. The way he sets an example of his bowling to others, that is class,” Rohit further said Star sports.
“He has evolved a lot in himself. With your game, with your thinking. As he bowls, the whole world is watching. He went from strength to strength.”
India’s batting struggles continue
India’s final batting innings of the series got off to a positive start from the opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. The duo added 35 runs before Scott Boland dismissed both batsmen in quick succession.
Virat Kohli, looking to make a statement in what could be his last Test innings on Australian soil, fell victim to Boland for just 6 runs. It was a familiar dismissal for Kohli – an edge outside the off-stump that flew to the second sheet.
Shubman Gillmoved up the order, he was caught behind Beau Webster on 14, leaving India in a precarious position.
Pant’s counter knock
Rishabh Pant brought some respite to the Indian innings with some aggressive batting. The wicket-keeper batsman scored a quick-fire 61 off just 31 balls, smashing boundaries at will and counter-attacking the Australian bowlers.
Pant’s innings came at a crucial time, helping India cross the 100-run mark. His positive intent kept India in the game, but Australia’s bowlers continued to lose chips at the other end.
At the final drinks break of the day, India were 141/6, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar at the helm, battling to extend India’s lead.
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