Jasprit Bumrah, known more for his lethal bowling than on-field banter, showcased a rare playful side on the first day of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. With India dismissed for a modest 180 runs in their first innings, the pressure was on the Indian bowlers to deliver early breakthroughs and put Australia on the back foot.
Jasprit Bumrah, spearheading the attack, managed to strike by dismissing Usman Khawaja, providing India a much-needed opening. However, after that early success, the bowlers struggled to dislodge the partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and opener Nathan McSweeney. As the final session unfolded, a lighter moment emerged amid the intensity.
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Bumrah bowled a full delivery, which Labuschagne defended with ease. Picking up the ball, the Indian pacer gestured as if he would throw it at the stumps. Labuschagne, unfazed, stood his ground, playfully inviting Bumrah to take the shot. Smiling, Bumrah chose restraint and returned to his bowling mark, sharing a lighthearted exchange with the Australian batter.
Another battle of expressions in the #ToughestRivalry? IYKYK 😁
Memers, do your thing now! 😅#AUSvINDOnStar 2nd Test 👉 LIVE NOW on Star Sports! | #AUSvINDOnStar pic.twitter.com/9qR1xjqbCL
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 6, 2024
In a later over, Bumrah bowled a near-perfect delivery that narrowly missed Labuschagne’s edge. The pacer, animated and amused, jogged towards the batter with a grin. Labuschagne, equally sporting, acknowledged the quality delivery with a smile and quipped, “Good delivery.” This mutual show of respect highlighted the camaraderie and competitiveness between the players.
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By the end of the day’s play, Australia had reached 86/1, trailing by 94 runs. The hosts will feel satisfied with their position after their struggles in Perth. With McSweeney and Labuschagne showing resolve, Australia will aim to take a significant first-innings lead and apply pressure on Rohit Sharma’s men on Day 2. India, on the other hand, will hope for early breakthroughs to shift the momentum in their favor.
