(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] India pacer Jasprit Bumrah displayed a stellar performance on Day 2 of the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam, exhibiting lethal reverse swing bowling tactics that kept the visitors in check.
Following a surprising defeat in the first Test at Hyderabad, the hosts made a resounding comeback, buoyed by a magnificent double hundred from young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal and a remarkable six-wicket haul by Bumrah, all unfolding on the second day of the ongoing match.
India set a commanding first-innings total of 396 runs and then swiftly bundled out England for 253 runs in just 55.5 overs, securing a substantial lead of 143 runs. Bumrah played a pivotal role in dismantling the English batting lineup without conceding significant damage. Adding 28 more runs to their lead without losing any wickets in the second innings, India concluded Day 2 on a high note.
Reflecting on his performance, Bumrah shared insights into his mastery of reverse swing bowling, acknowledging the influence of legends in shaping his skills.
“As a child I have grown up watching reverse swing set-ups and legends bowling magical deliveries. That is something that really inspired me. So when I came into serious cricket, I learned how do you set up a batter and how do you use your strengths. I used to see this as a kid and now I am able to do it so really happy with that,” Bumrah said as quoted in a video posted by the BCCI after stumps on Day 2.
Bumrah emphasized the significance of reverse swing in Indian conditions, attributing his proficiency to the exposure gained through domestic cricket.
“When you play in India, reverse swing plays an important role. Being born in this country, we learn the art of reverse swing in domestic cricket and can use it to our advantage. So very happy when you get wickets through reverse swing, no better feeling.”
The 30-year-old showcased his prowess in the first innings, claiming six wickets while conceding only 45 runs in 15.5 overs, including five maiden overs. His scalps included Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes, Tom Hartley and James Anderson.
Bumrah also revealed his strategic prowess, mentioning how he set up the English batters after dismissing Pope for 23 runs, which proved pivotal in his success throughout the innings.
“After that Pope delivery, I had an idea that they might be keeping an eye on inswingers. The outside edge then comes into play. The ball was maintained really well and when they edged it, it did carry,” Bumrah concluded.