Cricket has always been a sport rich in traditions and superstitions, and on day 1 of the fourth test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was no exception. An intriguing moment unfolded when the Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj he threw the balls off the stumps as the Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne was on strike, a ritual that some in the cricket world believe brings good luck and wickets for bowlers.
Mohammed Siraj’s superstition: bail change at stake
In Australia’s 43rd innings, Siraj approached the stumps and deliberately changed the bails, an act that caught the attention of the spectators. Labuschagne, unfazed, simply walked away. This was not the first time such an incident had occurred between the two players. At a similar moment at the Gabba, Labuschagne reversed the change and subsequently lost his ground soon after. Siraj even jokingly informed Labuschagne of his actions, adding an air of levity to the tense match. However, on this occasion, Siraj’s ritual did not immediately bear fruit.
While Siraj’s superstition didn’t work for him, it seemed to pave the way for his teammate. jasprit bumrah. In the 45th minute, Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja in a dramatic turn of events. Khawaja, who was well set on 57 runs off 121 balls, attempted a shot against a short delivery but missed it at the right time. The ball found its way to KL Rahul at mid-wicket, leaving Khawaja walking back with a sad smile. This breakthrough was crucial for India as Bumrah continued to demonstrate his match-winning prowess.
Here is the video:
Siraj’s trick 🤝 Bumrah’s magic
Will it bring you more good luck? #TeamIndia? 🤔#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 4th Test, Day 1 | LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/s1ROwb7Q6O
– Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 26, 2024
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Labuschagne, who looked solid at the crease with a composed 72 off 145 balls, finally fell in the 66th over. Washington Sundarintroduced into the attack, it lured the batsman into playing an expansive shot. Labuschagne, failing to reach the field of the ball, mistimed his shot and was caught by the Indian captain. Virat Kohli midway. This dismissal, which came just after the drinks break, was a significant moment for the Indian team as they attempted to regain control.
Marnus Labuschange throws his head back after leading for 72. #AUSWIND pic.twitter.com/Mr7kyYHqn6
– cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 26, 2024
Australia ends day 1 strong but not unscathed
In difficult times, Australia had achieved a formidable 311 runs for the loss of six wickets. Steve Smith He remained unbeaten on 68, showing his class with five boundaries and a six. Bumrah emerged as India’s standout performer, taking three wickets and providing critical breakthroughs. While the day largely belonged to Australia, India’s disciplined bowling ensured the game remained well balanced. As both teams prepare for Day 2, the focus will be on whether India’s bowlers can build on the momentum or whether Australia’s lower order will extend their lead.