The IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test is getting intense. With Australia batting first, they have dominated the game so far. What saved India yet again is the ever-reliable Jasprit Bumrah. As he has done throughout the series, he dismissed Usman Khawaja to provide a crucial breakthrough. What’s even more remarkable is Bumrah’s ability to turn the game around with the old ball. Indian captain Rohit Sharma brought him into the attack to destabilise the Aussie innings, and the decision proved to be spot on for the team.
Bumrah’s remarkable spell after tea
As Australia marched ahead confidently, Jasprit Bumrah’s brief yet game-changing spell halted their progress. Brought into the attack before the new ball after the tea, Bumrah delivered two overs of pure precision. In his first over, he struck gold with a delivery that nipped back sharply, bowling Travis Head for a duck. Returning for his second, Bumrah’s sharp bouncer forced Mitchell Marsh into an error, edging the ball behind to Rishabh Pant. With just two overs, Bumrah turned the momentum India’s way, showcasing his ability to impact the game even in a short burst.
Smith’s steadiness in between the Collapse
While Bumrah wreaked havoc at one end, Steve Smith held the fort for Australia. Reaching his fifty, Smith continued to guide the innings despite losing partners at crucial junctures. His ability to find gaps and rotate the strike was key in maintaining Australia’s scoreboard pressure, even as the Indian bowlers tightened their grip.
India’s tactical brilliance in IND vs AUS
The decision to bring Bumrah in before the new ball proved to be a masterstroke. With the old ball offering little help, Bumrah’s ability to generate bounce and movement played a big role. His dismissal of Head and Marsh not only broke Australia’s rhythm but also opened up their lower-middle order, setting the stage for India to dominate. With the new ball just overs away, India is well-positioned to capitalise on the early breakthroughs. Siraj and Akash Deep, alongside Bumrah, could exploit the fresh ball to further dent Australia’s innings. Smith’s wicket will remain the key for India to seize complete control of the match.
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