Jasprit Bumrah returns to SCG from hospital after injury scare

In a much-needed relief for Team India, fast bowler and stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah returned to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) late on Day 2 of the ongoing fifth Test against Australia. Bumrah, who left midway through Australia’s second innings for tests, rejoined the Indian camp around 4:45 pm local time, running up the steps of the pavilion, a sight that brought hope to Indian fans.

With India likely to defend a modest target in the late innings, Bumrah’s availability could prove pivotal on a spicy SCG track. The 31-year-old has been India’s preferred bowler in the series, leading the list of wicket-keepers with 32 dismissals so far.

Bumrah leaves half of the innings for explorations

Bumrah’s absence was felt during the second half of Australia’s innings when he left the field with the team’s physiotherapist. The pacer, who looked uncomfortable while bowling, headed to a Perth hospital for preventative scans.

Despite losing their star bowler, India managed to restrict Australia to 181 runs, thanks to an inspired bowling effort from Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy. The trio were well supported by a strong catch from the slip cordon.

Virat Kohli took over captaincy duties in Bumrah’s absence as the pacer himself replaced Rohit Sharma, who opted out of the Sydney Test due to his poor form.

Rohit Sharma praises Bumrah’s leadership

Ahead of the day’s match, Rohit Sharma praised Bumrah’s leadership qualities and praised his evolution as a cricketer over the years.

“Of course, he has a lot of game ideas. The way he sets an example for others by bowling is class,” Rohit said in star sports.

“It has evolved a lot in itself. With his game, with his thinking. The way he bowls, the whole world is watching. “It has been getting stronger.”

India’s batting struggles continue

India’s final batting innings of the series got off to a positive start from openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. The duo added 35 runs before Scott Boland dismissed both batsmen in quick succession.

Virat Kohli, looking to make a statement in what could be his last Test innings on Australian soil, fell victim to Boland by just 6 runs. It was a familiar dismissal for Kohli: an edge outside off stump that flew at second slip.

Shubman Gill, promoted up the order, was trapped behind Beau Webster for 14, leaving India in a precarious position.

Counter Hit by Pant

Rishabh Pant brought some respite to India’s innings with an aggressive knock. The keeper-batsman scored a quickfire 61 off just 31 balls, smashing boundaries at will and counter-attacking the Australian bowlers.

Pant’s innings came at a crucial time, helping India cross the 100-run mark. Their positive intent kept India in the game but Australia’s players continued to attack at the other end.

At the final break to catch some of the day, India were 141/6, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar at the crease, battling to extend India’s lead.

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