Team India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, delivered a scintillating performance on Day 4 of the ongoing fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Bumrah dismissed Australia’s wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey with a near-perfect delivery, showcasing his brilliance in Australia’s second innings.
India’s pacers began the day with determination, removing the Australian openers early. Bumrah struck first, dismissing Sam Konstas, while Mohammed Siraj accounted for Usman Khawaja. Despite the early setbacks, Australia pushed their lead past 150 runs in the morning session, finishing at 53/2 at lunch with Marnus Labuschagne (20*) and Steve Smith (2*) at the crease.
Bumrah’s moment of magic came in the 36th over. Bowling a good-length delivery in the channel, the ball jagged back sharply after pitching. Alex Carey attempted a drive through the covers but missed the inside edge, and the ball sneaked through the bat-pad gap to rattle the off-stump. The wicket added to Bumrah’s growing tally and kept India firmly in the contest.
WATCH – Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah’s Strategic Brilliance Dismisses Travis Head in Intense Fourth Test
Australia’s resistance crumbled in the second session. Mohammed Siraj dismissed Steve Smith for 13 runs, triggering a collapse that saw the hosts lose four wickets for just 11 runs in 22 balls. Bumrah was the architect of this carnage, claiming three wickets in a lethal spell. He removed Travis Head for 1, Mitchell Marsh for a duck, and Alex Carey, all within 11 deliveries.
Australia have lost 4-11 in 21 balls and Jasprit Bumrah has taken 3-3 in 11 balls! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/s8g9lSamrF
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024
Bumrah’s remarkable effort brought him a historic milestone—200 Test wickets, achieved in just 44 matches. His fiery spell left Australia reeling at 94/6 in the 37th over, with a lead of 199 runs. Marnus Labuschagne (46*) and skipper Pat Cummins (0*) were the last recognized pair standing at the crease.
WATCH – Mohammed Siraj Dismisses Usman Khawaja And Celebrates In Style
India now has a golden opportunity to bowl Australia out for a chaseable target. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tied at 1-1, a win in this match would not only secure a crucial lead in the series but also strengthen India’s chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final. Bumrah’s heroics have undoubtedly set the stage for a thrilling finish.
