India Faces a Setback as Bumrah Exits Sydney Test
India faced a significant setback during the second day of the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) as captain and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah left the field for precautionary scans after showing signs of discomfort. The incident occurred shortly after the post-lunch session when Bumrah bowled just one over and felt some strain, likely on his side.
Bumrah’s Performance in the Series
Despite his early exit, Bumrah’s performance in the series has been phenomenal. He has bowled 151.2 overs across five Tests, claiming 32 wickets at an impressive average of 13.06, surpassing Bishan Singh Bedi’s record of most wickets by an Indian bowler in a single Test series on Australian soil.
| Match | Overs Bowled | Wickets Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Adelaide (2nd Test) | 20 | 5 |
| Melbourne (Boxing Day Test) | 52 | 8 |
| Sydney (Current Test) | 10 | 2 |
There have been growing concerns about Bumrah’s workload during the tour. He has been India’s go-to bowler, often bowling long spells due to the lack of support from other bowlers. After the Boxing Day Test, Rohit Sharma acknowledged the risk of over-bowling Bumrah, stating, “We’ve been trying to maximize his form but need to manage his workload carefully.”
Leadership Transition: Kohli Takes Charge
With Bumrah leaving the field, Virat Kohli took over the captaincy for the middle session of the day. India, needing a win to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, now faces the challenge of playing without their primary pacer.
What Happened Before Bumrah Left the Field?
Bumrah bowled a four-over spell in the morning, picking up the crucial wicket of Marnus Labuschagne. However, after bowling one over post-lunch, his speeds dropped to the 120-130 kmph range, indicating discomfort. He was seen speaking with Kohli before walking off the field, accompanied by the team doctor and security officer. Visuals later showed him leaving the stadium in an SUV.
JASPRIT BUMRAH IN TRANING KIT WITH MEDICAL STAFF TEAM AT SCG.
— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) January 4, 2025
– Hope Jasprit Bumrah will be fine, He's our Main man..!!!! 🤞pic.twitter.com/oVTkapClNI
Rohit’s Reaction to On-Field Tension
Interestingly, earlier in the day, Bumrah was involved in a heated exchange with an Australian player after a comment was made from the non-striker’s end. Rohit Sharma backed his players, saying, “Our boys remain calm until provoked. If someone pokes them, they will retaliate. We are here to play cricket, not indulge in unnecessary chatter.”
The Indian camp has yet to provide an official update on Bumrah’s condition. His scans will determine the severity of the issue, and fans are hoping it is nothing serious given his vital role in the team’s success.
