December 28, 2024: India’s talismanic pacer Jasprit Bumrah opened up on his battle with Australia’s rising star Sam Konstas during Day 1 of the ongoing Melbourne Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Speaking to 7Cricket before the start of Day 3, Bumrah revealed that he felt he could have dismissed the 19-year-old opener multiple times in his first two overs.
Konstas, who was brought into the Australian squad in place of Nathan McSweeney, was handed the challenging task of opening against India’s world-class pacers in front of a sell-out crowd. The young Australian impressed with his fearless approach, playing shots with intent, including a sensational ramp shot off Bumrah’s bowling.
Reflecting on the intense battle, Bumrah shared his thoughts on Konstas’ aggression:
“I have experienced heaps of it. I have played T20 cricket a lot, more than 12 years of T20 cricket and yeah, interesting batsman as well and I always felt I was in the game. I had never felt that, you know, I am far away from a wicket. Initially, I felt I could get him out six, seven times in the first two overs, but that is how cricket goes. Some days it pays off, it looks good, some days it doesn’t, then you guys might be criticising the same person. So, that is how cricket is and I love different challenges and yeah, always looking forward to a new challenge,” Bumrah said.
Konstas’ fearless strokeplay had the Australian crowd buzzing, and his counter-attacking knock of 60 (65) laid a solid foundation for Australia’s total of 474. His performance was instrumental in propelling Australia to a dominant position in the match.
Bumrah, however, acknowledged that his execution didn’t always result in the wickets he hoped for, adding that it was part and parcel of the game:
“Yes, I have felt good and the results have been in my favour, but I have bowled better in certain situations, in different places, but this is how cricket goes. Some days your execution might be off, you get wickets, but some days your execution could be perfect and you don’t get wickets. So, I think it all evenly balances out someday.”
Despite Konstas’ resistance, Bumrah’s ability to adapt and stay in the game speaks volumes about his experience and resilience. Bumrah currently holds the title of the highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with 25 wickets, showcasing his skill and consistency.
As India looks to make a comeback in the match, Bumrah’s leadership and adaptability will be crucial in overcoming Australia’s dominance.
