On the second day of the Vizag Test, England initially celebrated a successful effort in restricting India to what seemed like a below-par first innings total of 396 on a seemingly docile track.
However, their optimism was swiftly dampened by the home team’s bowling unit, especially an inspired Jasprit Bumrah, who took charge after Lunch. James Anderson had initially led the English side’s bowling efforts, but Bumrah’s brilliance with the scuffed-up SG ball stole the spotlight.
In a spectacular display of control over reverse swing, Bumrah made the visitors dance to his tune. He got the prolific Joe Root to nick off, but his most memorable moment came against Ollie Pope in Hyderabad.
In the 28th over, Bumrah showcased his full range of variations, confusing the 26-year-old with a mix of slower balls and swinging good length deliveries.
The climax occurred on the penultimate ball, as Pope, trying to counter the lengths by taking guard outside the crease, helplessly watched a Bumrah delivery angle viciously into his legs. Before the top-order maestro could react, the ball sneaked under his willow, shattering into the middle stump and leaving both bails cartwheeling.
Timber Striker Alert 🚨
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2024
A Jasprit Bumrah special 🎯 🔥
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Pope couldn’t hide his frustration at falling embarrassingly to Bumrah’s well-set trap. The wily pacer, known for his typical wry smile, flashed it briefly, setting social media abuzz with reactions from fans.