In a riveting display of skill and determination, Jasprit Bumrah orchestrated a remarkable exhibition of reverse swing on a seemingly flat deck during the second Test in Visakhapatnam. His sensational performance played a pivotal role in bowling out England for 253 in their first innings, granting India a significant advantage.
The day began with Yashasvi Jaiswal’s memorable maiden double hundred, a sterling innings that illuminated an otherwise challenging batting effort for India. With a total of 396 all out in their first innings, India seized control of the game.
However, it was Bumrah’s spellbinding prowess with the ball that stole the spotlight. Commencing in the final session, England’s aggressive start, led by Zak Crawley’s brisk 76, was abruptly halted by Bumrah’s masterclass in reverse swing. The 28-year-old fast bowler exhibited finesse, claiming his 10th five-wicket haul and finishing with impressive figures of six for 45 in 15.5 overs, marking his best performance in India.
About Bumrah’s Reverse Swing Masterclass:
Bumrah’s exceptional achievement also saw him become the second fastest Asian fast bowler, following in the footsteps of Pakistan’s Waqar Younis, to reach 150 wickets. His victims included key English batsmen such as Joe Root, Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow, and the opposition skipper Ben Stokes, underlining the impact of his brilliance.
Kuldeep Yadav, making his first appearance in the series, complemented Bumrah’s heroics with three crucial wickets. Despite the notable absence of wickets for seasoned spinner R Ashwin and the challenges faced by the second pacer Mukesh Kumar, Bumrah’s exceptional performance stood as the defining factor in India’s dominance.
As the day concluded, India, unscathed at 28 for no loss in their second innings, held a commanding 143-run lead. Bumrah’s phenomenal feat not only put India ahead in the match but also etched his name in the record books as he reached the milestone of 150 wickets with flair and finesse. The stage is now set for India to capitalize on their advantageous position as the second Test in Visakhapatnam unfolds.
