Mohammed Siraj Silences Sydney Crowd with Double Wicket Over

2 days ago | 5 Views

A motivated Mohammed Siraj made a significant impact by taking two wickets in a single over during the morning session of Day 2 in the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the SCG in Sydney. The day commenced with stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, who edged the ball to Rishabh Pant in the seventh over of Australia's innings, thereby becoming the Indian bowler with the highest number of wickets (32*) in a series in Australia. Following this, Siraj entered the fray. Having faced jeers and boos from Australian crowds since his confrontation with Travis Head, Siraj was determined to make his mark. His intent was evident during the second innings of the previous Test in Melbourne, and it reached its peak on Saturday.

Siraj effectively contained the aggressive Sam Konstas with his precise line and length, eventually enticing him into a drive that resulted in an outside edge during the 12th over. The ball nibbled away from a fuller length, and Yashasvi Jaiswal took a sharp catch at the gully, prompting loud cheers from Indian supporters and boos from the Australian crowd. However, Siraj remained unfazed and energized.

Travis Head, a key player, entered the crease at No. 5 and quickly scored with a powerful flick for four runs. Unlike in the first three Tests, India seemed to have devised a clear strategy against Head. This approach had proven effective in Melbourne, where he scored a duck and one run, and it continued to work in Sydney. Siraj bowled with a couple of catchers positioned on the on-side, creating the illusion of a body-line bouncer before delivering a perfect ball that angled across the left-hander from a good length, resulting in an outside edge. KL Rahul, stationed at second slip, was ready to capitalize on the opportunity.

Siraj dismisses Konstas and Head in the over

Australia found themselves in a precarious position at 39 for 4 after 12 overs, as India mounted a formidable response following their dismissal for 185 on the first day of the series decider.

Towards the conclusion of the day's play, Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja for 2 runs on the final delivery before stumps, following a contentious exchange with Sam Konstas.

Currently, Australia holds a 2-1 advantage in the series, while India must secure a victory in this Test to level the series and preserve the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!