
In a moment of tactical brilliance, Virat Kohli’s on-field guidance helped Mohammed Siraj dismiss Steve Smith on Day 4 of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Kohli, known for his proactive approach, was heard instructing Siraj through the stump microphone on how to bowl to the Australian maestro, who had scored a century in the first innings.
Kohli’s advice to Siraj was clear: "Kone se, kone se. Har ball kone se. Usko pasand hai kone se," urging the pacer to bowl from the wide edge of the crease to exploit Smith’s tendencies. Siraj followed the instructions, delivering a wide ball that tempted Smith into edging it to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps, leaving Australia at 80/3.
Earlier, Siraj had removed Usman Khawaja, clean-bowling the opener for 21. This double strike, coupled with Kohli’s tactical input, was crucial in India’s push to get back into the game. India had posted 369 in response to Australia’s 474, and their bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah, delivered vital breakthroughs.
Bumrah joins elusive club!
Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah on Sunday became the second fastest Indian along with Ravindra Jadeja to complete 200 Test wickets and the first bowler ever to reach that milestone with a sub-20 average during the fourth day's play of the fourth Test against Australia here.
The match so far
Australia have lost their ninth wicket in the second innings, with Pat Cummins dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja for 41 (191/9). Now, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland remain unbeaten at the crease for the visitors. (With inputs from Agencies)
Published: 29 Dec 2024, 12:05 pm IST
Related Topics
Get Latest Mathrubhumi Updates in English
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.

