Jasprit Bumrah Concedes a Six After 4483 Balls: A Day of Highs and Rare Lows at the MCG

Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between Australia and India was packed with thrilling moments, as Australia finished the day at 311/6 at the stumps. The action was non-stop, with several exciting events throughout the day's play, and Jasprit Bumrah was very much a part of the drama. From being put in a spot of bother during the first session to making a brilliant recovery by the end of the day, Bumrah's performance was a rollercoaster. Here's an in-depth review and insight into how the Indian pacer faced challenges early on but finished the day strongly, showcasing his resilience and skill.

The Rare Lows On Day 1

This may be a common occurrence for many bowlers, who often concede sixes at regular intervals in longer formats. As Test cricket evolves, batters are finding it easier to hit sixes. However, it's different for Jasprit Bumrah. In the early stages of his career, he did concede sixes relatively frequently, but over the years, he has become increasingly difficult to hit for sixes. Remarkably, Bumrah hasn't conceded a six in Test cricket for 4,483 deliveries, with his last one being hit by Sam Konstas after a remarkable 747 overs of his bowling. This statistic is significant, considering Bumrah's excellence as a bowler at the peak of his Test career. Interestingly, the young 19-year-old broke this record by smashing Bumrah for two sixes with a ramp shot over the boundary.

In addition to this, Sam Konstas handed Jasprit Bumrah an unwanted record by scoring 18 runs off him in a single over. This marked the first time in Bumrah's Test career that he conceded more than 16 runs in an over, thanks to the 19-year-old debutant. This over followed a moment when Virat Kohli bumped shoulders with Sam Konstas, leading to a few exchanged words. Konstas responded to the confrontation by striking Bumrah for 18 runs, which included two sixes.

These lows have been rare for Bumrah in recent years and it all hit it one day of play, Showing the Game evolves and you can’t hang around at the top for so long.

Highs on Day 1

Despite facing some challenges, Jasprit Bumrah made Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test memorable with a stellar performance, leading his team with poise and determination. The Indian pacer claimed 3 crucial wickets, including the dismissal of Travis Head for a duck, showcasing his ability to strike when needed most. Bumrah had to adjust his strategy in the first session against the young debutant Sam Kontas, but his classic bowling returned in full force as the day progressed. By stumps, Bumrah had figures of 3/75, leaving a significant impact on the match.

Equalling Ashwin’s Record
Bumrah’s remarkable performance also saw him equal Ravichandran Ashwin’s highest-ever Test ranking point of 904, setting a new milestone for himself. With the same ranking points as Ashwin, Bumrah is now just a wicket away from surpassing this record, a testament to his consistency and skill.

Breaking Personal Records
In addition, Bumrah has now taken 24 wickets in this series, surpassing his previous best of 23 wickets in a series. This personal achievement marks a new high in his career, further solidifying his status as one of the best fast bowlers in the world.

Jasprit Bumrah's performance on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test encapsulated both resilience and brilliance. Despite early challenges, including a rare concession of a six, he bounced back to claim three key wickets, including the prized scalp of Travis Head for a duck. Bumrah's adaptability against the young Sam Kontas and his classic bowling style by day's end highlighted his invaluable contribution to the team. Equally impressive is his achievement of equalling Ravichandran Ashwin's record Test ranking points, as well as surpassing his own personal best for wickets in a series. With these milestones, Bumrah continues to prove why he remains one of the premier fast bowlers in world cricket.