Jasprit Bumrah Shines with Five-Wicket Haul in Comeback Match Against England
Bumrah's Stellar Return to International Cricket
Leeds [UK], June 23: Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah made a remarkable return to international cricket, claiming five wickets against England in Leeds. This match marked his first appearance after recovering from an injury, and he confidently dismissed his critics, stating that he does not let their opinions affect him. Bumrah emphasized his commitment to playing until the time 'God has written' for him.
With this performance, Bumrah achieved his 12th five-wicket haul in away matches, equaling the record set by the legendary Kapil Dev. He also became the first Asian bowler to secure 150 wickets across South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia (SENA). The day's play concluded with India leading by 96 runs, although rain curtailed the action.
In the post-match press conference, Bumrah remarked, 'I don't focus on what others think or say. My priority is my experience and preparation. I cannot control what people write or expect from me.' He acknowledged the popularity of cricket in India and the media's tendency to sensationalize his name for viewership, but he stressed that such matters do not concern him.
He elaborated on his approach to handling criticism, stating that he does not let external expectations weigh him down. 'Every night, I reflect on whether I have given my all. If I have, I sleep peacefully,' he shared.
Bumrah continued, 'What truly matters is my identity and beliefs, which guide my actions. If others want me to play differently, that's not who I am. My preparation and mindset are rooted in my desire to represent India.' He also mentioned that during his injury periods, there were doubts about his return, but he remains focused on his career.
As he approaches a decade in international cricket and over a decade in the IPL, Bumrah noted that speculation about his retirement persists. 'Let them wait. I will continue to play as long as it is meant to be. I prepare diligently and leave the rest to God,' he concluded.
The day's Test match, largely dominated by England, ended with India holding a 96-run advantage after the final session was interrupted by rain.
At the close of play, India stood at 90/2, with KL Rahul (47*) and captain Shubman Gill (6*) remaining at the crease.
India began the final session with a slight lead over England, who had been bowled out for 465 runs in their first innings, while India had posted 471 runs.
Despite a shaky start, with Yashasvi Jaiswal dismissed for just four runs, KL Rahul showcased resilience, hitting two boundaries against Chris Woakes. Sudharsan also made a promising start, scoring four runs on his first ball.
Rahul displayed caution against pace bowlers, leaving balls wisely and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. The pair guided India to 50 runs in 12.1 overs.
However, Sudharsan's innings ended at 30 runs after a catch by Zack Crawley, leaving India at 82/2.
Earlier, England resumed the second session at 327/5, with Harry Brook (57*) and Jamie Smith (29*) at the crease. Brook's aggressive batting continued, while Smith and others contributed valuable runs.
Brook narrowly missed a century, scoring 99 runs before being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna. Bumrah (5/83) and Krishna (3/128) were instrumental in bowling England out for 465 runs.
England began the day at 209/3, with Ollie Pope (100*) and Brook (0*) unbeaten. Prasidh's early wicket of Pope (106) was crucial as Brook formed significant partnerships, pushing England past the 300-run mark.