Travis Head, in the words of former India coach Ravi Shastri, has been a headache for India in this Border Gavaskar Trophy but Jasprit Bumrah ended his innings early on Thursday. The Australian dangerman was dismissed for zero runs in 7 balls.
After the fall of Marnus Labuschagne’s wicket in the 66th over, Rohit Sharma promptly brought Bumrah to the head in the next over. The Indian pace spearhead went around the wicket, bowled a length ball that bounced back to the left-hander. Australian batsmen have consistently shown an ability to rely on bounce on these pitches and leave the ball on length. But the ball was pitched so well that it connected to the top of the offstump like a heat-seeking missile. The decision to put a hand on the head’s shoulder proved wrong this time.
Bumrah seed to get head for duck!#AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @nbn_australia pic.twitter.com/ZlpIVFca5O
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 26, 2024
After Sam Konstas’ performance earlier in the day, Bumrah had a strong spell in the third session which was credited to both Head and Mitch Marsh in quick succession. Underscoring his importance to this Indian side once again.
Before Melbourne, Bumrah – by some distance the best bowler in all the teams in this series – had really struggled against Head. “Playing with purpose and looking to bowl Bumrah, Head not only nullified his threat but disrupted his rhythm. His ability to deliver short deliveries with authority and drive fullers with precision is remarkable, underlining the progress he has made,” said Greg Chappell of the Sydney Morning Herald. wrote for
But on Boxing Day, the Indian got a chance to bring out his familiar celebration – that shoulder palm pointed upwards. It was another special moment created by a special bowler in superb form.
Why should you buy our membership?
You want to be the smartest in the room.
You want access to our award-winning journalism.
You don’t want to be confused and misinformed.
Choose your subscription package