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 mid-way through Australia’s second innings for scans, rejoined the Indian camp around 4:45 pm local time, sprinting up the pavilion stairs — a sight that brought hope to Indian fans.
With India likely defending a modest target in the final innings, Bumrah’s availability could prove pivotal on a spicy SCG track. The 31-year-old has been India’s go-to bowler in the series, leading the wicket-takers’ chart with 32 dismissals so far.
Bumrah Leaves Mid-Innings for Scans
Bumrah’s absence was felt during the second half of Australia’s innings when he left the ground with the team physio. The pacer, who appeared in discomfort while bowling, headed to a Perth hospital for precautionary scans.
Despite missing their ace bowler, India managed to restrict Australia to 181 runs, thanks to an inspired bowling effort from Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy. The trio was well-supported by sharp catching from the slip cordon.
Virat Kohli took over captaincy duties during Bumrah’s absence, as the pacer himself was filling in for Rohit Sharma, who opted out of the Sydney Test due to poor form.
Rohit Sharma Praises Bumrah’s Leadership
Before the day’s play, Rohit Sharma lauded Bumrah’s leadership qualities and praised his evolution as a cricketer over the years.
“Of course, he has a lot of game ideas. The way he sets an example of his bowling for others, that is class,” Rohit said on Star Sports.
“He has evolved a lot in himself. With his game, with his thinking. The way he is bowling, the whole world is watching. He has gone strength to strength.”
India’s Batting Struggles Continue
India’s final batting innings of the series saw a positive start from openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. The duo added 35 runs before Scott Boland dismissed both batters in quick succession.
Virat Kohli, looking to make a statement in what could be his final 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 second slip.
Shubman Gill, promoted up the order, was caught behind off Beau Webster for 14, leaving India in a precarious position.
Pant’s Counter-Punching Knock
Rishabh Pant brought some respite to India’s innings with an aggressive knock. The wicketkeeper-batter scored a quickfire 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 chip away at the other end.
At the last drinks break of the day, India were 141/6, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar at the crease, battling to extend India’s lead.
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