India captain Rohit Sharma has come out strongly in support of Jasprit Bumrah after the pacer’s fierce altercation with Australian opener Sam Konstas during the ongoing fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Known for his calm demeanor, Bumrah surprised everyone by losing his cool after an exchange with the 19-year-old Australian batsman on Day 1.
During the lunch break on Day 2, Rohit, speaking to the host presenters, called Konstas’ behavior “nonsense” and backed his players for standing firm.
“Our boys have class, but they will not stay silent forever”
Rohit made it clear that while the Indian team is focused on playing classy cricket, it will not tolerate unnecessary provocations.
“Our son is as calm as ever. If they keep pointing fingers, there will be no peace,” Rohit said. “Play cricket, this stupidity does not suit you. (Our boys remain calm until they are disturbed. Play cricket, these unnecessary antics do not look good).”
He further added: “Our boys have class. We focus more on what our job is. (Our boys have class. We concentrate more on our tasks).”
The heated exchange between Bumrah and Konstas
The incident occurred on the penultimate ball of Day 1, when Usman Khawaja took his time settling into the crease, disrupting Bumrah’s pace.
However, it was not Khawaja’s delay that caused the tension. Konstas, standing next to the non-striker, made comments that irritated Bumrah. The pacer, known for his calm personality, could not contain himself and got into a verbal dispute.
On the next ball, Bumrah dismissed Khawaja, forcing an edge to KL Rahul at second slip.
The celebration that followed was intense. Bumrah charged towards Konstas, letting his emotions show. Virat Kohli, who was stationed at the curb, also ran towards Konstas, adding to the drama.
“Bumrah had every right to react”
Rohit Sharma justified Bumrah’s reaction by stating that the team prioritizes professionalism but will not remain silent if provoked.
“It was important to take a couple of wickets at that time to keep Australia under pressure,” Rohit explained. “Our goal is to win games, but if someone crosses the line, our players will respond.”
Kohli’s fiery participation
Virat Kohli, known for his passionate approach to the game, didn’t hold back either. After Bumrah’s dismissal of Khawaja, Kohli ran towards Konstas with a charged demeanor, indicating that he was not happy with the young batsman’s conduct.
Seeing Kohli and Bumrah celebrating together, with Konstas in the middle, created a passionate scene at the SCG.
The historical landmark of Bumrah
Amidst all the drama on the field, Bumrah quietly etched his name in the record books.
Dismissing Marnus Labuschagne for just 2 runs on Day 2, Bumrah took his 32nd wicket of the series, surpassing Bishan Singh Bedi’s record for most wickets by an Indian bowler in an away Test series.
Bumrah’s leadership has been instrumental for India, especially in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma. His ferocious spell on Day 1 set the tone for India’s comeback in the crucial Sydney Test.
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