Indian skipper and frontline pacer Jasprit Bumrah stepped off the field during the second day of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, seeking precautionary medical scans after feeling discomfort after his spell, bowled immediately after lunch.
Bumrah had bowled 10 overs in the first innings, taking figures of 2/33, including the important wicket of Marnus Labuschagne in the morning session. However, during his post-lunch spell, he was seen feeling discomfort, suspected to be a side strain. After speaking to Virat Kohli, Bumrah left the field and was escorted by the team’s security liaison officer and the team doctor. His exit has raised concerns over the severity of the injury.
Virat Kohli Steps into Captaincy
With Bumrah injured, Virat Kohli took over the Indian side. Kohli has been a consistent leader, and his ability to keep his cool in pressure situations was well reflected as he led India in the absence of Bumrah. The team did not experience any major drop in their competitive spirit during his absence.
Hot Exchange with Australian Player
Earlier on Day 2, Bumrah got himself into a heated argument with an Australian teenager, who made some provocative comments from the non-striker’s end. He is generally known for his calm demeanor but lost his cool and had a wordy duel with the Australian youngster. But this moment did not last long when, on the last ball of the day, he got rid of Usman Khawaja, triggering a spectacular display of camaraderie from the Indians. Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and others stood up to defend Bumrah, citing the need for team unity.
Rohit Sharma Stands Up for Indian Players
After the controversy, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma supported his boys, mainly Bumrah, and said that the Indian boys keep silent till a particular time and will reply when someone pokes them. “Our boys are silent until a particular time. If you poke them, they will retaliate. Cricket should be played with respect, and these kinds of antics don’t look good,” he added.
Bowling Efforts by India During the Time of Injuries
With Bumrah absent, the bowling attack did not lose any strength. Krishna Prasidh and Mohammed Siraj played good innings to cover up Bumrah. Krishna took 3 wickets for 42 runs, and Siraj grabbed 3 for 51 runs. Indian bowlers bowled out Australia for a meager score of 181 runs in their first innings. Australia debutant Beau Webster scored the maximum 57 runs. It handed India a small lead of 4 runs on the board in the first innings.
This is a serious blow to India’s campaign as they need to win this Test to draw the series level at 2-2 and then send it back home with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The leadership and bowling skills of Bumrah will be monitored closely as the possible injured player in this game.
As of now, it is still unclear whether Bumrah will be returning to the field, and India will be hoping for a positive update on his condition.
