Jasprit Bumrah Dismisses Usman Khawaja with Unlikely Delivery in Boxing Day Test
In the MCG’s Boxing Day Test, veteran Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Australian opener Usman Khawaja. It was a crucial breakthrough. The breakthrough came in the 45th over of Australia’s first innings. Bumrah ended a gritty second-wicket stand between Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne.
Bumrah Removes Khawaja with an Unexpected Short Ball
Jasprit Bumrah, seeking his first wicket, delivered a surprising short ball to Khawaja from around the wicket. The batter, caught off guard, attempted a half-hearted pull shot, only to mistime the ball off the toe end of his bat. The result was a straightforward catch at short midwicket by KL Rahul.
Khawaja, who had scored a solid half-century, anchored the innings. His dismissal came at a crucial moment for India. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s decision to reintroduce Bumrah paid off. It relieved the visitors as Australia seemed in control.
Australia’s Dominance with the Bat
Earlier in the day, Australian captain Pat Cummins opted to bat first after winning the toss. So far, the decision has paid off. The Australian batsmen took advantage of good conditions at the MCG.
- Sam Konstas, on his Test debut, set the tone with an explosive half-century. It put the Indian pacers on the back foot early in the innings.
- Usman Khawaja played a gritty knock. He and Labuschagne built a key second-wicket stand to strengthen Australia’s position.
At the time of writing, Australia was 221/2. Marnus Labuschagne (72*) and Steve Smith (15*) were at the crease, building the innings.
Key Stats at a Glance
- Usman Khawaja: 58 runs, dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah
- Jasprit Bumrah: 1/37 in 12 overs
- Sam Konstas: 67 runs (debut innings)
Can India Fight Back?
India has a tough task. The Australians are in control of the Boxing Day Test. The visitors will rely on their bowlers, including Jadeja and Siraj, to break into the Australian middle order on Day 1.
