Jasprit Bumrah delivered a masterclass performance at the MCG, leaving Australia helpless in the fourth Test and pushing India towards a series-defining victory. His remarkable spell saw him dominate the Australian batters, further cementing his reputation as a cricketing great. Bumrah’s electrifying bowling reduced Australia to 4-11 in mere 22 balls, showcasing his ability to singlehandedly alter the course of a Test match.
On this particular day, Bumrah wove magic with the ball, blending pace, movement, and tactical brilliance to baffle the Australian lineup. The spell he produced wasn’t just about statistics or records — though he did become the first bowler to reach 200 Test wickets with an average under 20 — it was a testament to his evolving genius on Australian soil. In a period defined by his artistry, he dismantled the Australian middle-order with deliveries that swung unexpectedly and bounced sharply, leaving a trail of bewildered batsmen.
Australia, starting with aspirations of victory on day four, quickly found their ambitions dashed by Bumrah’s relentless assault. After Steve Smith’s dismissal, the team faced an epic collapse initiated by Rohit Sharma’s decision to unleash Bumrah just when stability was most needed for Australia. The session turned nightmarish for the Australians as Bumrah removed key players Sam Konstas, Mitch Marsh, and Alex Carey, each with deliveries crafted to exploit their individual weaknesses.
In contrast to their struggling counterparts, Marnus Labuschagne mounted resilient resistance, contributing a gutsy 70 runs despite facing Bumrah’s onslaught. His efforts, alongside a significant late-order partnership between Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland, stretched Australia’s lead, setting the stage for an intriguing day five.
Australia’s shift from seeking victory to safeguarding against defeat was evident post-tea. Their defensive play aimed to preserve the draw, a result that seemed inconceivable just days prior. As the match heads into its final day, Australia is tasked with the monumental challenge of securing ten wickets against an India poised for a historic run chase. The stage is set for a thrilling finale, reminiscent of their iconic clash at the Gabba in 2021, with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy hanging in the balance.
