Sydney Thriller: Australia 71/3, India Battles Without Bumrah

As part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, the third day of the fifth Test being played at Sydney concluded its first session with Australia scoring 71 runs for the loss of 3 wickets at lunch. Chasing a target of 162 runs, the hosts require another 91 runs to secure victory, while India needs to claim 7 more wickets to win.

Despite facing a modest target, Australia started aggressively, racing to 35 runs in just the first three overs. However, in their attempt to maintain an attacking approach, Sam Constas (22) was caught by Washington Sundar off the bowling of Prasidh Krishna, resulting in Australia losing their first wicket at 39 runs. Soon after, Prasidh Krishna struck again, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne (6) and Steve Smith (4) in quick succession, reducing Australia to 58/3. Currently, Usman Khawaja (19) and Travis Head (5) are at the crease.

Bad News for India
Team India faced a setback as their captain and lead bowler Jasprit Bumrah was unable to bowl due to an injury and remained on the bench. Consequently, the burden of India’s bowling attack now rests on Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Nitish Reddy. It was earlier reported that Bumrah, suffering from a back issue, had batted despite his discomfort.