Sat Jan 04 11:29:16 UTC 2025: ## India Seizes Control on Day 2 of Sydney Test Despite Bumrah Injury Scare
**Sydney, Australia:** India dominated the second day of the fifth and final Test against Australia, ending the day with a commanding 145-run lead despite a scare involving captain Jasprit Bumrah. A breathtaking 29-ball half-century by Rishabh Pant propelled India to 141/6 at stumps, following Australia’s earlier dismissal for 181.
The day began with Australia resuming at 9/1, still trailing India’s first innings total of 185. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc early, dismissing key batsmen Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head, and contributing to a lunch score of 101/5, leaving Australia trailing by 84 runs. However, Bumrah left the field for scans after bowling just one over in the second session, sparking concerns about a potential injury. Despite this setback, India’s bowlers continued their relentless assault. Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj each claimed three wickets, while Nitish Kumar Reddy picked up two quick wickets, including Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc off consecutive deliveries. Beau Webster, making his Test debut, scored a defiant 57 before falling to Krishna.
In response, India’s batting stumbled early. Scott Boland proved a thorn in India’s side, dismissing KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Virat Kohli. However, Pant’s explosive innings counteracted the early setbacks. He smashed boundaries and a six to reach his half-century before being dismissed by Pat Cummins. At stumps, Ravindra Jadeja (8*) and Washington Sundar (6*) remained unbeaten.
Bumrah’s return to the stadium later in the day eased concerns, as he appeared to be moving comfortably. The extent of his injury, however, remains unclear. The match is crucial for both teams; Australia needs a win to avoid a decade-long Border-Gavaskar Trophy drought, while India must win to secure a place in the World Test Championship final.
First Piper 