India’s aggressive pacer Mohammed Siraj has developed a knack for being at the center of attention. Day 2 of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 Test against Australia at the Gabba was no different. While the day so far saw India’s bowlers dictate terms, Siraj’s playful bail-swap exchange with Marnus Labuschagne brought an unexpected dose of humor, keeping players and spectators entertained.
The bail switch antics from Mohammed Siraj
The drama unfolded during the 33rd over of Australia’s innings when Siraj, who had not yet managed to claim a wicket in the match, decided to up the intensity uniquely. After delivering a ball, Siraj casually walked up to the striker’s end, much to Labuschagne’s curiosity. Instead of conversing or confronting, Siraj nonchalantly flipped the bails on the stumps and walked back with a sly grin, leaving Labuschagne visibly bemused.
Not one to back down, Labuschagne waited for Siraj to return to the bowler’s end before switching the bails back himself. The quirky exchange elicited loud reactions from the Gabba crowd, who seemed to enjoy the light-hearted banter. Yet, behind Siraj’s antics was a tactical ploy aimed at disrupting Labuschagne’s concentration – a strategy that soon bore fruit.
Here’s the video:
How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024
Marnus Labuschagne loses wicket next over at Gabba
Labuschagne, known for his unshakable focus and disciplined approach, appeared rattled by the incident. In the very next over, while facing India’s young all-rounder Nitish Reddy Reddy, he attempted an expansive drive to regain control of the game. However, the stroke lacked conviction, and he edged the ball to the slip cordon, where Virat Kohli gleefully completed the catch. The dismissal proved to be a key moment in the innings. Labuschagne, often a thorn in India’s plans, had been building a solid foundation, but Siraj’s psychological edge seemed to have gotten the better of him, leading to his untimely downfall.
India’s man with the golden arm! 😍
Nitish Kumar Reddy breaks a flourishing partnership as Marnus Labuschagne departs! 👏#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 3rd Test, Day 2, LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/p6wNCCZuTp
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 15, 2024
Also READ: Australia or India? Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist predict the winner of Gabba Test
Australia’s steady start against India amidst challenges
On Day 2 of the third Test at Brisbane, Australia reached 104/3 at lunch after 43 overs, battling India’s disciplined bowling attack. Steve Smith (25) and Travis Head (20) remained unbeaten, stabilizing the innings after early setbacks. Jasprit Bumrah led India’s charge with an incisive spell, dismissing Usman Khawaja (21) and Nathan McSweeney (9) to leave Australia at 38/2 in the morning session. His consistent accuracy troubled the top order, keeping the scoring rate under control.
Youngster Nitish Kumar claimed the key wicket of Labuschagne (12), caught by Kohli, as India maintained pressure through tight lines and sharp fielding. Meanwhile, Smith and Head showed resilience, putting on an unbeaten partnership of 29 runs for the fifth wicket. While Smith anchored the innings with caution, Head brought a more aggressive approach, striking two boundaries.
Also WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s annoyance caught on stump mic – AUS vs IND 3rd Test
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