The India vs Australia Test series has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, and Day 2 of the 5th Test at the SCG was no exception. With drama, resilience, and some incredible performances, the day saw India claw their way back into the match despite a major setback in the form of Jasprit Bumrah’s injury.
India managed to bowl out Australia for 181, taking a slender 4-run lead in the first innings. The day was filled with twists and turns, with standout performances from Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy, who stepped up in Bumrah’s absence. Let’s dive into the key moments and highlights of this thrilling day of cricket.
Table of Contents
Bumrah’s Injury: A Major Blow for India
The day began with a massive blow for India as their captain and star bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, left the field after bowling just two overs post-lunch. Cameras captured Bumrah leaving the SCG with support staff, reportedly heading for scans. While he didn’t appear to be limping, the sight of him leaving the ground in his training kit rather than his whites sent shockwaves through the Indian camp and fans alike.
Bumrah’s absence could have been a nightmare scenario for India, given his pivotal role in the bowling attack throughout the series. However, the rest of the Indian bowlers rose to the occasion, delivering a spirited performance to keep the team in the game.
India’s Bowling Unit Steps Up
With Bumrah out, the Indian bowling attack had to dig deep, and they did so with remarkable determination. Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Nitish Kumar Reddy led the charge, dismantling the Australian batting lineup.
Key Bowling Performances:
- Prasidh Krishna (3/42):
Initially struggling in his early overs, Prasidh found his rhythm and delivered crucial breakthroughs. His extra bounce troubled the Australian batters, and he ended the innings with impressive figures. - Mohammed Siraj (3/37):
Siraj was relentless with his line and length, cleaning up the tail and ensuring Australia couldn’t build a significant partnership. His dismissal of Scott Boland to end the innings was a crucial moment. - Nitish Kumar Reddy (2/20):
The debutant was the surprise package of the day. Reddy’s double strike, including the wickets of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, turned the tide in India’s favor. His sharp bowling and composure under pressure were commendable.
Australia’s Collapse
Australia, starting the day in a decent position, suffered a dramatic collapse. The lower order, which had frustrated India in the previous Test, couldn’t replicate their heroics this time.
Key Moments:
- Beau Webster’s Half-Century on Debut:
Webster was the lone bright spot for Australia, scoring a gritty 57 on debut. His innings showcased his first-class experience, but he lacked support from the other end. - Sharp Indian Fielding:
India’s fielding was exceptional, with Virat Kohli and KL Rahul taking stunning catches in the slips. Kohli’s diving effort to dismiss Cummins was a standout moment. - Siraj’s Final Blow:
Siraj cleaned up Boland to end Australia’s innings at 181, giving India a narrow 4-run lead.
India’s Resilience
Despite the setback of losing Bumrah, India’s bowlers showed incredible resilience. The team’s fielding was tight, and they didn’t drop a single chance, ensuring Australia couldn’t capitalize on any opportunities.
The lead of 4 runs may seem small, but in a low-scoring game, it could prove to be crucial. However, the challenge now lies with the Indian batters, who will face a tough task against Australia’s formidable bowling attack in the third session.
What’s Next?
As the match progresses, all eyes will be on India’s batting lineup. The pitch at the SCG has shown variable bounce, making it a nightmare for batters. With Bumrah’s availability for the second innings still uncertain, India will need to put up a strong total to give their bowlers a fighting chance.
Australia, on the other hand, will look to exploit the conditions and restrict India to a low score. The battle between India’s batters and Australia’s bowlers promises to be an intense contest.
Conclusion
The India vs Australia 5th Test continues to deliver high drama and intense cricket. Day 2 was a testament to India’s resilience, as they overcame the setback of losing Bumrah to take a slender lead. The performances of Siraj, Prasidh, and debutant Reddy were instrumental in keeping India in the game.
As the match heads into the third session, the focus shifts to India’s batting lineup. Can they build on their lead and set a challenging target for Australia? Or will the Australian bowlers strike back and regain control? One thing is certain: this Test match is far from over, and the next few sessions promise to be a thrilling battle between two cricketing giants.
Read More: What Does the Future Hold for Rohit Sharma in Test cricket?
FAQs
1. What happened to Jasprit Bumrah during the 5th Test?
Jasprit Bumrah left the field during the second session on Day 2 of the 5th Test at the SCG. He reportedly went for scans after bowling just two overs post-lunch. While he didn’t appear to be limping, his absence was a significant blow for India. The team is awaiting updates on his condition, and it remains unclear if he will bowl in the second innings.
2. How did India take the lead despite Bumrah’s absence?
India’s bowling unit stepped up in Bumrah’s absence, with Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy delivering exceptional performances. They bowled Australia out for 181, giving India a narrow 4-run lead. The fielding was also top-notch, with key catches taken by Virat Kohli and KL Rahul.
