(VIDEO): Jasprit Bumrah Shatters Glenn Maxwell’s Stumps-TGN

As cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly tuned in, India and Australia locked horns in the third and final One Day International (ODI) at the Saurashtra Cricket Association stadium in Rajkot on September 27, 2023. With India already claiming victory in the first two ODIs, they held a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. This high-stakes encounter promised riveting action right from the start.

(VIDEO): Jasprit Bumrah Shatters Glenn Maxwell’s Stumps:

The Toss and Batting Decision

The toss of a cricket match can often set the tone for the entire game, and this was no different. Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, won the toss and made a crucial decision – choosing to bat first. This strategic move aimed to put runs on the board early and exert pressure on the Indian team.

Lineup Changes

Both teams made significant changes to their lineups, hoping to turn the tide in their favour. For Australia, the inclusion of Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, and Tanveer Sangha brought fresh energy to their XI. On the Indian side, the return of key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav injected experience and talent back into the starting eleven. Washington Sundar also received an opportunity, to replace R Ashwin.

Australia’s Strong Start

Australia’s openers, David Warner and Mitchell Marsh, made a formidable pair, giving their team a strong start. Warner, in particular, was in fine form, contributing 56 runs to the partnership. However, Prasidh Krishna’s delivery proved Warner’s undoing, and he departed, setting the stage for Mitchell Marsh to take charge.

Marsh and Smith’s Pivotal Partnership

The middle overs of an ODI often witness crucial partnerships, and this match was no exception. Mitchell Marsh, resolute after Warner’s departure, combined forces with Steve Smith to forge a partnership that kept Australia’s hopes alive. Together, they added a substantial 137 runs for the second wicket, frustrating the Indian bowlers.

Kuldeep Yadav’s Breakthrough

However, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and the fortunes can change in a flash. Kuldeep Yadav, with his mesmerizing spin, ended Mitchell Marsh’s innings just four runs short of a well-deserved century. This breakthrough provided India with a glimmer of hope.

Smith’s Departure and Siraj’s Impact

Steve Smith, a batting stalwart, played an essential role in stabilizing Australia’s innings. However, Mohammed Siraj had other plans. In a moment of brilliance, Siraj dismissed Smith for 74 runs, delivering a significant blow to the Australian side.

Bumrah’s Precision

Jasprit Bumrah, known for his impeccable line and length, continued to be a force to be reckoned with. As Marnus Labuschagne sought to build partnerships with the middle order, Bumrah executed a masterful delivery that sent Alex Carey packing with just 11 runs on the board.

Glenn Maxwell’s Return

The arrival of Glenn Maxwell to the crease added an element of excitement. Marking his return to international cricket after a hiatus since March 2023, Maxwell’s presence was keenly awaited. However, he faced a stern test against the relentless Jasprit Bumrah.

Bumrah’s Decisive Yorker

In the 39th over, with Australia’s hopes pinned on Maxwell, Bumrah unleashed a deadly yorker. The ball, targeted at the off-stump, left Maxwell with minimal room for manoeuvre. In an attempt to guide the ball to the offside, Maxwell’s bat came down too late, resulting in a catastrophic outcome for Australia. The ball crashed into the off-stump, ending Maxwell’s innings after a mere 5 runs from 7 balls.