In a match filled with moments of high drama and skill, Jasprit BumrahIndia's leading fast bowler, delivering not only a devastating ball but also a lively delivery to the young Australian opener Constance himself during the fourth Test of the Frontiers-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Jasprit Bumrah cleans Sam Konstas with beauty
The incident occurred early on the fourth day of the Test when Bumrah, known for his pinpoint accuracy, bowled a bouncer that smashed Konstas' middle stump. Konstas, who had shown an impressive attack against Bumrah during Australia's first innings, was dismissed for just eight runs in the second innings.
The delivery was a masterclass in seam bowling; it went forward to good length, back quickly between Konstas' bat and pad, and clipped the top of middle stump. This dismissal was in stark contrast to Konstas' first innings performance where he scored a quick 60 off 65 balls, including two sixes off Bumrah, the first in nearly four years who hit a six off India in Test cricket.
Duel of classics: Bumrah-Konstas clash at MCG
After the ball made its way through Konstas's defence, the normally reserved Bumrah exploded in celebration. He turned to the crowd, urging them to obey with a dramatic gesture, imitating Konstas' own impressive performances during India's innings. This move was seen as a direct response to what Konstas had on the third day when he rallied the crowd as he ran near the boundary rope, a move that Bumrah obviously hadn't forgotten.
Here is the video:
middle stump! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSWIN | #Delivery with Speed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024
Also Watch: AUS vs IND – Jasprit Bumrah castles Alex Carey with peach on Day 4 of Boxing Day Test
Bumrah's performance in this series has been excellent, showcasing his vital role in India's bowling attack. His ability to adapt his bowling to different situations and opponents has been on full display, especially against fearless young Konstas who has been making waves since his Test debut.